Do you feel depressed on Sundays?
As many as 76 percent of people feel anxious about a new work week on Sundays. Psychologists note that it can have a variety of psychological and physical consequences.
Since we spend weekends mostly with family and in roles that suit us, the anxiety we feel on Sunday is mostly related to getting out of those and returning to roles that are not in line with ourselves and our being - explained psychologist Dr. Amy Cirbus. He adds that this anxiety is a ‘survival tactic’ that people have long adopted to be able to think about potential dangers and avoid them. There is no real need for it today.
The result is the hours we spend on a perfect Sunday afternoon worrying about work projects, colleagues at work, waking up early, or about traveling to work, at a time when we could and should relax.
Although, says Cirbus, this anxiety varies from person to person. Some of the emotions that most people experience at the end of the week are anxiety, fear, irritability, indignation, anger, sadness, loneliness, depression and others.
Sunday anxiety can also cause physical symptoms such as stomach upset, headaches, insomnia, tense muscles. Anyone can have these feelings, regardless of whether they have a history or current experience of depression or anxiety.
Here are some steps that could help you if you feel this way:
Plan a joyful weekend
Write things on your calendar that you will enjoy from Friday night to Sunday night. It can be anything - from hiking, visiting friends or a concert, to taking the time to read a good book.
Start writing down your feelings
When you are under stress or worried about the upcoming work week, write down your feelings for some, just acknowledging what is happening may help you in your way.
Make Monday a happier day
If you buy lunch one day a week at work, for example, let it be Monday, if you go out for a drink with colleagues once a week, do it on Monday. Turn your first day of work into a day you look forward to, instead of shying away from it.
Give yourself time to rest
The body needs sleep, but it also needs rest - and these are two different things! Many people perceive their work and productivity as something that should last all day, which causes them mental exhaustion and physical fatigue. That is why it is necessary to set aside time in the day when we will not do anything.
