Why Does Anxiety Get Worse in Certain Months? Understanding Seasonal Anxiety
Do you notice your anxiety feels worse during certain times of the year?
Winter feels heavy.
Summer feels restless.
Holidays feel overwhelming.
That’s called seasonal anxiety.
And here’s the important part.
You’re not imagining it.
You’re not “too sensitive.”
And you don’t have to push through it on your own.
There are reasons this happens. That’s why seasonal anxiety therapy in Plymouth MI can be a helpful, supportive next step.
What Is Seasonal Anxiety?
Seasonal anxiety means your symptoms rise and fall depending on the season.
It’s different from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is depression linked to lack of sunlight. Seasonal anxiety is about worry and stress that flare up when your body and routine get thrown off by seasonal changes.
For example:
Anxiety feels heavier in the winter when days are dark and cold
Sleep gets harder in the summer when days are long and hot
Holidays bring pressure with money, family, and travel
Back-to-school or end-of-year work deadlines trigger extra stress
Why Anxiety Gets Worse in Certain Months
There are clear reasons your anxiety spikes during specific times of the year.
Light changes. Shorter days in fall and winter disrupt your sleep-wake cycle and lower vitamin D.
Holiday stress. Family gatherings, financial strain, and busy schedules raise anxiety.
Heat and long days. Summer heat raises cortisol, while long days can throw off sleep.
Routine shifts. Back-to-school, new work schedules, or year-end deadlines bring pressure.
Why does anxiety get worse in winter or summer?
Anxiety gets worse in winter because of less daylight, disrupted sleep, and holiday stress. It gets worse in summer because of heat, longer days, and social pressure.
What are the Signs of Seasonal Anxiety
Seasonal anxiety looks like general anxiety, but it shows up more strongly during certain months.
Worry that doesn’t stop
Racing thoughts
Restlessness
Irritability
Muscle tension
Fatigue
Stomach upset
Trouble sleeping
Do you notice these symptoms feel worse during winter or summer? That’s seasonal anxiety.
How to Manage Seasonal Anxiety
There are small, daily steps that can help.
Keep a consistent sleep schedule
Get at least 20 minutes of natural light each day
Exercise regularly to lower stress hormones
Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
Use mindfulness or deep breathing to calm your body
Try light therapy in darker months
Break big tasks into smaller steps
These aren’t quick fixes. But when you keep them up, they make anxiety easier to manage.
When to Try Seasonal Anxiety Therapy in Plymouth, MI
Sometimes seasonal anxiety feels like too much.
You can’t sleep.
You can’t focus.
You feel tense all the time.
That’s when therapy helps.
Seasonal anxiety therapy in Plymouth, MI gives you:
A safe space to talk without judgment
Tools to calm your body and mind
Strategies that last beyond one season
Support from a therapist who understands anxiety
At Think Feel Talk Therapy, we provide anxiety therapy that fits your life. We use proven methods like cognitive behavioral therapy and tailor them to your needs.
FAQ: Seasonal Anxiety Therapy
Is seasonal anxiety the same as SAD?
No. SAD is depression tied to a lack of sunlight. Seasonal anxiety is worry, restlessness, and tension that shift with the seasons.
Can seasonal anxiety happen in summer?
Yes. Summer heat, long days, and social expectations can all increase anxiety.
How do I know if I need therapy for seasonal anxiety?
If anxiety keeps you from sleeping, focusing, or enjoying life, therapy is the next step.
Where can I find seasonal anxiety therapy in Plymouth MI?
Right here. Think Feel Talk Therapy offers anxiety therapy for seasonal anxiety and year-round support.
Moving Forward
You don’t have to deal with seasonal anxiety alone.
With seasonal anxiety therapy in Plymouth, MI, you can feel steadier, present, and in control, no matter the season. Reach out today to schedule your first session.