Easing the Shift from Summer to Fall: Coping with Burnout

As the long, sunny days of summer wind down, many Calgarians notice changes not only in the weather but also in how they feel. The transition from busy, activity-filled months to the quieter, cooler days of fall can leave some of us feeling tired, low on motivation, or even burnt out.

If you’ve been feeling this shift, you’re not alone—and there are ways to navigate it gently while taking care of your mental health.

Why Burnout Happens During Seasonal Transitions

Several factors contribute to the “fall slump” that can hit in Calgary and elsewhere:

• From social highs to quiet days: Summer often includes travel, festivals, and outdoor events. The sudden drop in social activity can leave you feeling disconnected.

• Energy depletion: A busy summer calendar can leave your energy reserves low by September.

• Less sunlight: Shorter days and cooler weather can affect mood, motivation, and sleep patterns.

Simple Strategies to Ease the Transition

Here are some practical ways to support yourself during the change from summer to fall:

• Give yourself permission to rest: You don’t need to jump straight into full productivity. Slowing down can be restorative.

• Maintain connection: Schedule small, meaningful check-ins with friends or family, even if it’s just a coffee date or a quick phone call.

• Get outside daily: Even a short walk in natural light can boost energy and mood.

• Set gentle routines: Daily structure helps combat burnout and provides stability.

• Practice self-compassion: Remind yourself that adjustment takes time—and that’s perfectly normal.

Additional Tips to Soothe the “Seasonal Whiplash”

• Plan things to look forward to: Schedule small joys—a fall hike, cooking a new recipe, visiting a pumpkin patch, or enjoying cozy nights in. Anticipation itself can lift your mood.

• Check your energy battery: Each morning, ask yourself, “How much energy do I have today?” Align your plans with your energy level.

• Listen to your needs: Do you need quiet, movement, social time, or inspiration? Meeting your needs helps you find balance instead of overcommitting.

• Create transition rituals: Swap summer habits for fall-friendly routines, such as journaling, warming up your living space with soft lighting, or enjoying a nightly cup of tea.

• Balance activity and rest: If the drop from summer’s busyness feels jarring, find a middle ground—plan a few enjoyable activities each week while leaving space for rest.

When to Reach Out for Support

If you find yourself struggling with burnout, low mood, or the transition into fall, therapy can be a helpful space to reset and build coping strategies tailored to your life in Calgary. Even small adjustments, supported by a professional, can make a big difference in your energy and overall wellbeing.

Find Support in Calgary

Transitioning from summer to fall doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you need help managing seasonal burnout, anxiety, or simply want support to reset your routines, Calgary-based therapy can provide tools to feel balanced, connected, and energized.

Reach out today to do a free consultation to learn more about how our calgary based therapists can help you

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