Why New Yorkers Struggle with Summertime Sadness

Summer is still going strong in New York with plenty of exciting activities to enjoy. But as August comes to an end, the mood seems to shift, and for many, it becomes a time of sadness.

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Summertime sadness and the August blues are real, and this time of year can be a difficult one for many New Yorkers. One reason for the mood shift mood is that August marks the end of summer vacation.

For students, it means it's time to head back to the classroom. It's also a time when parents feel the stress of having to get their children ready for the school year. For young adults, the end of summer can mean the end of carefree days.

Many may be going back to college, while others start new jobs. And for those who work year-round, there may be a sense of sadness that the summer vacations are coming to a close.

According to Carly Harris, a therapist and young adult family program director at Newport Healthcare, August can be seen as the "Sunday night" of the year, where people feel the pressure of returning to work, or school.

"Just as many experience a sense of dread or anxiety on Sunday evenings, August can cause similar feelings on a larger scale, as it signals the end of a period of relaxation and freedom," she tells Bustle.

Another reason why August can bring feelings of sadness is the change in the amount of light. As the days start getting shorter, it can affect our body's internal clock, which can lead to changes in mood and energy.

Social media can also play a part in the August blues. TikTok and Instagram are often flooded with posts of people enjoying European summers or beach vacations. Seeing these posts can lead to feelings of sadness and make people feel like they have missed out of getting the most of their summer. So if you're feeling down this August, know that you're not alone.