Why People Start Therapy in Autumn
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Autumn brings with it a change in the weather and mood
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Therapist Saff Mitten explains why it's the season that many people begin therapy
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If you are looking for a therapist, you can find one here
So Summer is ending and Autumn is beginning, bringing with it a change in mood and outlook for many of us.
As we enter Autumn, the carefree, relaxed and sociable months of summer (with the longer days, sunshine and warmer temperatures), are replaced by work, responsibilities, family commitments (including kids being back at school, college or off to university), and an awareness that the days and evenings are starting to close in...
Perhaps not surprisingly then, the change of season can see many people feeling deflated and starting to experience a slump in mood. Life stresses become more apparent and harder to ignore than they often are during summer time when there is more to distract us. Also if there are any issues or problems within our relationships these may become more apparent and tempers may become more fraught, as we return to normal life with its routine and responsibilities.
For many, Autumn can become a time for reflection and introspection which may include an examination of our lives - asking ourselves what have we achieved, how happy or satisfied do we feel and where are we headed? Autumn is often a time where we start to go out less, spending more time at home and therefore, depending on our circumstances, possibly spending considerably more time alone. This in itself isn't a bad thing as regrouping and taking time out for oneself can be healthy and positive. And there is nothing like having a duvet day and devouring a box set. Although it is all about balance, and too much time on one's own could be detrimental or could contribute to a sense of loneliness and a lowering of mood, which can then make it harder to reach out to or connect with others.
As a result of all these different factors, this is a time of year that many people make the decision to try therapy. It can be really beneficial to speak to someone who has the necessary experience and training to support you as you explore and work through what you are thinking and feeling. Whether seeking to understand yourself better, work on your relationships, trying to get a handle on your stress or anxiety levels, deal with low moods, or make important life decisions; counselling or psychotherapy could be a really useful and positive tool.
So if this resonates with you in some way at the moment, rather than struggling with things on your own, perhaps therapy might be worth considering.
