The Sunday Blues

When is the Sunday Blues something more serious?

The "Sunday blues" hit hard as the weekend wraps up, and the workweek looms large. While not a clinical disorder, it’s a very real emotional response, with stress from work often associated with the end of relaxation. This can trigger anticipatory anxiety, where you worry about things that haven’t even happened yet, kicking your fight-or-flight response into overdrive. The result? Restlessness, irritability, and a growing dread for the week ahead.

So, how do you tackle it? Start by pinpointing exactly what's causing the anxiety—whether it’s your to-do list, a tough conversation at work, or a looming deadline. Naming the issue gives you control, and making a plan can help too. Break tasks into manageable chunks—high, medium, and low priority.

Next, reclaim your Sunday! Treat the day like a mini vacation—eat your favourite meal, dive into hobbies, or spend time outdoors. Get chores done early, so you can relax later. If anxiety persists, a short walk or a quick meditation session can help shift your mindset.

A relaxing Sunday routine, combining self-care and planning a balanced week ahead, can make Mondays seem less daunting. And remember, if work is the main cause, setting clear boundaries, like avoiding emails on weekends, is key to a healthier work-life balance.

While occasional instances of the Sunday blues are normal and typically short-lived, frequent feelings of anxiety at the end of each weekend, along with ongoing anxiety throughout the week, may indicate a more serious mental health concern which needs to be addressed with a professional therapist.

If you feel the Sunday Blues is ongoing and you want to speak to someone about it start the conversation. Click below to start.

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