When the summer turns to fall, we’re reminded that change is always happening, even when we’re not ready for it. While fall is beautiful for many, others experience sadness and emotional exhaustion, especially those who are dealing with loss. Shorter days, approaching holidays, and yearly family traditions can also serve as additional reminders of grief.
At Gerst Funeral Homes, we know that grief is complicated enough on its own. When combined with seasonal depression, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why this October, we want to offer a few gentle, intentional ways to care for your heart and mind as you move through both.
Understanding Seasonal Depression
Seasonal depression—officially known as Seasonal Affective Disorder—is a type of depression that tends to emerge in the fall and winter months. It’s triggered by the reduction in sunlight, which can disrupt our internal clock and affect serotonin levels. According to the American Psychiatric Association, roughly 5% of U.S. adults experience SAD each year. Common signs can include:
- Feeling hopeless or unusually fatigued
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Changes in appetite or sleep
- Increased irritability or withdrawal from loved ones
If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you’re not “failing” at grief. You may simply be experiencing the added weight of a seasonal shift in your mental health.
Acknowledge What Fall Brings Up for You
Fall can bring back painful reminders of time passing. It could be the smell of bonfires or the sound of the crowd at a football game. In these moments, grief can show up unexpectedly. It may be difficult, but you should let it. These moments are part of the healing process, and they’re okay to experience even when they’re unwanted. Try writing about what the season brings up for you, light a candle in your loved one’s memory, or simply let yourself cry when you need to. You don’t need to be strong all the time.
Move Gently and Often
Seasonal depression and grief can both create a sense of emotional and physical heaviness. One of the most proven ways to shift this feeling is through movement, not as a way to “fix” sadness, but as a way to care for your body in the midst of it. Try outdoor walks, gentle stretching in the morning, or grounding yourself outside in the sunlight. Even five minutes of movement can help reset your mind and reconnect you to the present moment.
Use Mindfulness to Ground Your Emotions
Mindfulness doesn’t mean ignoring your pain; it means making space for it in a way that’s compassionate and nonjudgmental. You can journal about what you’re grateful for each day, or remind yourself that these moments will pass. We also recommend taking three slow breaths and naming three things you see, hear, or feel around you. These practices aren’t about curing your grief. They’re about supporting yourself through it.
Stay Connected
Both grief and seasonal depression can make you feel like hiding. While it’s okay to take quiet time when needed, too much isolation can deepen sadness. Reach out, talk to someone you trust, join a support group, or just sit in silence with a friend. You don’t have to explain everything—sometimes just being around people who care is enough. If you’re not sure where to turn, there are wonderful grief and mental health resources, and we’re always here to help you find them.
Through Every Season, We’re Here
At Gerst Funeral Homes, we understand that grief doesn’t follow a schedule, and healing doesn’t always look like progress. This fall, we hope you’ll honor whatever your heart needs—rest, connection, quiet, or help. You’re not alone in your loss, and you don’t have to face seasonal depression in silence. If we can be a resource, a guide, or simply a starting point, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We’re here for you, through every season.