Fall: A Season of Change and Transitioning
Fall is here.
Although television commercials have been announcing the return of Fall since mid-summer, it is finally undeniable that the season is changing. This change can mean a lot of different things for different people. For those who love the summer, it may be sad to think of it coming to an end, while for those who hate the heat, the change may be a welcomed respite. The falling temperature and shorter days can lead to emotional changes for some, as in the case of Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, but there are many other changes in addition to the weather that happen at this time of year.
Back to school and what that means for all ages.
The start of the school year means a return to, if not the first venture into, the structure and focus of the classroom. This school year brings unique challenges as students and families navigate online learning and the stress of returning to school during the COVID-19 pandemic. School can bring to light the challenges that some children face academically, behaviorally, or socially. It can also be an entrée into an environment where some children thrive and some parents may worry about the effects of social isolation on their children during the pandemic.
For both parties in this case, the start of this school year is fraught with all kinds of emotions: fear, sadness, excitement, joy, frustration, and loneliness, to name a few. College is a time when young adults can really struggle, as it is the first time in their lives that they are mostly self-directed, but many look forward to this freedom and feel frustrated that it has been taken away by current circumstances. Parents may struggle with deciding what is best for their children during the pandemic, weighing safety and social pressures.
The season of change and transitioning.
Change and transitions, big and small, are hard for everyone, and some of us may be even more sensitive to them than others. It’s important to cut yourself some slack and be kind to yourself as you readjust to the “new normal” during the pandemic. Try to take some time to check-in with yourself and see how you are doing. Allow for the space to feel the whole gamut of emotions because, as I said before, change is often a mixed bag.
There is always good and bad in every change, just as there are both positive feelings and difficult ones. It may be helpful to reach out to friends who are in the same life stage, as you will undoubtedly learn that you are not alone in your struggle. And, of course, if you feel that you are not adjusting well, or are feeling significant and ongoing distress, reach out to a therapist who can help you work through it.
If you’re feeling the effects of the changing seasons and thinking about therapy, Council for Relationships can help. Currently, due to COVID-19, all clinical services are being provided exclusively online. You may request an appointment by completing the submission form or connect with the Client Care team over the phone at (215) 382-6680 ext. 1.