Psychologist explains causes and management of autumn burnout

Clinical Psychologist Burçin Deniz from the Medicana Health Group has addressed the phenomenon of autumn burnout, noting that seasonal fatigue, energy loss, and emotional fluctuations are biological and behavioral responses to changing environmental conditions.

As daylight decreases and temperatures drop, outdoor activities and social interactions often diminish. This reduction in external stimuli and positive reinforcers can lead to a gradual behavioral withdrawal, decreased life satisfaction, and a depressive mood.

Deniz also highlighted the role of rumination, where individuals become trapped in unproductive mental cycles by obsessing over questions such as ‘Why am I feeling this way?’ or ‘Why am I not at my former performance level?’. These thought patterns can reinforce inactivity and deepen feelings of dissatisfaction. She advises against waiting for motivation to appear spontaneously to combat these seasonal shifts.