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Are the end-of-summer blues the same thing as SAD? -

Although there are some parallels, end-of-summer blues and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) aren't the same. The latter is a condition you can diagnose, while the former isn't.

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When SAD hits -

SAD is a type of depressive disorder characterized by significant mood changes that come with the change of seasons, usually winter. But it can be any season.

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Symptoms of SAD -

The symptoms of SAD are severe and may include sleeping too much but still feeling exhausted, losing interest in your favorite hobbies and activities, and even thoughts of self-harm.

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End-of-summer blues -

End-of-summer blues, which can be upsetting and put us in a low mood, isn't on the same level as SAD.

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The joy of summer -

Anticipation builds as we shift into summer. Plans are made to see more people, go on vacations, dive into fun activities, and enjoy the great weather.

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Summer makes us nostalgic -

The days are longer, obligations are more relaxed, and there's a sense of nostalgia as we think back to the fun we had during childhood summers. 

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Summer expectations -

When we have those big summer expectations, it's easy to feel let down when we don't quite meet them. And in the event you do meet expectations, it can feel sad to realize that the season's wrapping up.

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Feeling of grief -

Also, the passing of one season to another can bring some level of grief. As we feel the days getting shorter and another season wraps, we recognize the passage of time, which can bring up reminders of mortality.

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How do you get over the end-of-summer blues? -

If you're dealing with the end-of-summer blues, know that you're not alone. Click on for some strategies to help you deal with those "summer scaries" and look forward to the new season.

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Celebrate your summer memories -

Looking back at your summer might help you realize you did and accomplished more than you thought. Plus, it can help you relive some of your favorite memories. 

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Preserves the memories -

Preserve those summer memories by creating a photo or video album. You can also bring bright and lively colors into your home or workspace, or incorporate plants that remind you of summer. 

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Create an end-of-summer ritual -

Another way to honor the closing of summer is to create a ritual you can repeat each year.

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Simple rituals -

It could be as simple as a final carefree day before school starts, or having an end-of-summer bash with loved ones. 

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Acknowledge and address your feelings -

Acknowledging that complicated emotions exist and working through them is the key to helping you feel better, both now and in the future.

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Addressing the emotion -

You might write down the feeling, such as sadness, grief, or frustration, and then take time to pinpoint the underlying cause. Once you've established the root issue, you can better address the emotion.

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Dive into a new hobby or activity -

Engaging in a new activity or hobby can provide a sense of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season. 

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Chose something of personal interests -

Pick an activity that aligns with your personal interests or something that you've always wanted to try, such as hiking or a new exercise. 

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Build anticipation for fall -

Remember that anticipation you built as summer approached this past year? Do the same for the next season.

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Make plans for the near future -

Make a list of the things you like about fall or things you're looking forward to in the next couple of weeks.

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Indulge in self-care -

The colder months are made for self-care! From meditation to getting a massage, taking some moments for yourself can help you feel good. 

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Self-improvement -

One area of self-care that's often neglected is self-improvement. Therefore, start a course or dive into an inspiring book. 

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See a mental health professional -

Experiencing the end-of-summer blues is completely normal. But, if you're struggling, working with a mental health professional can help you handle the seasonal change.

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Create autumn and winter versions of your favorite summer activities -

Part of what gives us August anxiety is losing those summer-only activities. But can you think of one or two activities that can translate into winter activities? 

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There are plenty of activities -

For example, if you miss working up a sweat, you can still go on a bike ride or try hot yoga. And if you love going to the beach, you could sign up for beach cleanup in the cooler months.

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Dwell on the positives -

As the days get shorter and the weather cools off, make an effort to notice the positive things that aren't necessarily a part of your summer fun.

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Sensations of fall -

From the feeling of a cozy sweater to the smell of fallen leaves and bonfires, the fall season is filled with good things. 

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Plan a vacation -

If you live somewhere with long and dark winters, start planning a winter getaway, preferably to a warm destination, for you to look forward to.

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Dream and plan -

So with summer behind you, take the time to explore holiday options filled with warmth and sunshine. You'll also have the time to create a detailed itinerary that enhances your vacation experience.

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Whatever happens, summer will be back -

But remember, summer will be back before you know it!

Sources: (Verywell Mind) (MyWellbeing) (Lifehacker) 

See also: The 30 best money saving tips for the fall season

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