Fall has its beauty—the cozy nights, crisp mornings, and golden sunsets. But it also comes with shorter days, darker evenings, and an invisible shift in how we feel. If you’re grieving, you may notice it even more.
Grief already drains energy and patience. Add the reality of less daylight and colder weather, and suddenly the smallest things can feel overwhelming. You might notice yourself snapping at people you love, running out of energy faster, or avoiding social situations altogether. And while it’s easy to feel guilty for being “short-tempered” or “not yourself,” the truth is this: you’re not broken. You’re human.
Why Shorter Days Affect Us
There’s actually science behind this. When daylight decreases, our bodies produce more melatonin (the sleep hormone), which can leave us groggy and tired. Less sunlight also means less vitamin D, which can affect mood and energy. For someone carrying the weight of grief, this seasonal shift can feel like an added layer of heaviness. It’s not just in your head—it’s in your body, too.
What Grief + Seasonal Change Looks Like
For many people, this might show up as:
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Irritability or snapping at others more quickly.
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Feeling like “little things” drain your energy.
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Struggling to focus or stay motivated.
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Needing more rest than usual.
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A pull toward isolation or retreat.
If any of this sounds familiar, know that it’s normal. Your patience feels shorter because your reserves are being stretched thin.
What You Can Do
✨ Pause + Name It – Simply noticing when your patience is short can be powerful. Say to yourself: I’m tired. I’m grieving. The season is heavy. That acknowledgment softens the guilt.
✨ Rest without Guilt – Give yourself permission to cancel plans, say no, or take a nap. Rest is not laziness—it’s necessary.
✨ Create Small Light Rituals – Light a candle at dusk. Step outside for a 10-minute walk in the sun. These small actions help reset your body and spirit.
✨ Communicate Kindly – If you’re feeling drained, let others know. A simple: “I’m low on energy today, but it’s not about you” can keep relationships steady when your patience runs thin.
Quote to Carry With You
"You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first." — Unknown
Grief teaches us that life changes without our permission. Seasons do the same. As the days grow shorter, give yourself grace. Let yourself rest. Be patient with your impatience.
Because even when your patience runs low, your worth does not.