As of Wednesday, we are officially in the fall of the year.   With the transition of summer to fall we see the kids back in school and football in full swing.  We see the weather starting to change and the warmer clothing coming out as people change out their summer wardrobe.  Lots of things happen in the fall, including getting ready for the holidays.   However, that also comes with increasing anxiety and depression for some.  Although fall is my favorite time of year, I know that it hold sadness and pain for some.

                For me, I love watching the leaves turn and the colors of fall.  I love the smell of fall and the cooler air.  I’m a college football fan, so the season is exciting as the teams play.  Fall comes with decorations for Halloween, and other holidays, and the stores have fun and yummy goodies waiting for all.  I also admit that I’m a pumpkin spice person, so it’s also the season of food favorites for me.  For me fall is a welcome change from the heat of summer.

                For many, however, fall comes with sadness and loss.  For so many people I worked with in treatment, fall brought memories related to the loss of loved ones and pain.  Death happens any time of year, but somehow in the fall the deaths are easily associated with a holiday or event.   They might have dreams during this time that are vivid and affect them even when awake.   Memories are associated with things and events, like decorations they bring out, or dishes for holiday celebrations, making managing emotions harder at times. 

                For others, fall is energizing.  They are out working in the yard as the heat of summer decreases and they go all out to decorate for holiday fun.  They are baking goodies in the kitchen with cooler temperatures, and always have something in mind for the next treat.  They are more active without the heat, and start projects around the house that they have been putting off.   They might like shopping, and start shopping early for holiday gifts, and planning for gatherings with family and friends.

                So what is fall for you?  Do you enjoy the season, or does it bring up loss and pain?  Do you enjoy the holiday season, or is it just another time to feel more alone and detached?  No matter what you feel about fall, it is another opportunity to make changes in your life, and your outlook.  Each season can come with new goals and a new outlook.   If you do have losses around this time of year, find a way to celebrate the lives of people you lost.  Have a gathering to remember those who are no longer with you.  Share their story and keep them alive.  If it’s a time of year you enjoy, enjoy it with all the things that make it special for you. 

                Each season comes with positives and negatives, but it’s up to you to make the season what you want it to be.  Enjoy, remember, and make choices that make it what you want.  It’s all part of being happy for life.