Storms, Shorter Days, and Stress: The mental health side of Louisiana’s fall season

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Most of us welcome fall for its cooler temperatures, drier air, and cozy sweaters. But in Louisiana, autumn also means something less comforting as hurricane season continues through the end of November. For many residents, the season brings lingering stress as late-season storms remain a real possibility.

Autumn officially begins Monday, Sept. 22, with the autumnal equinox, ushering in shorter days and temperatures that swing between warm and cool.

Peak hurricane season as fall starts

Studies show that after major storms, Gulf Coast residents frequently experience post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. That’s hardly surprising when you consider the toll these disasters have taken, after more than half of New Orleans’ population lost their homes during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and nearly one million homes were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Ida in 2021.

Louisiana is no stranger to devastating losses, and the uncertainty of late-season storms only adds to the strain. Hurricanes Zeta and Delta, for example, both struck the Louisiana coast in October 2020.

Worried about seasonal depression? Take advantage of resources

Fall is more than just pumpkin spice and colorful leaves; it’s a time of changing weather patterns and shifting daylight that can subtly influence how we feel on a day-to-day basis.

Shorter days bring another challenge. As daylight decreases, we receive less solar radiation and produce less vitamin D, which is linked to mood shifts and higher stress levels, even here in the South, where temperatures stay relatively warm.

There are many resources out there if you find yourself struggling with your mental health during the upcoming months.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness Baton Rouge offers support groups and educational programs to teach about mental health. Local community centers, libraries, and places of worship often offer mental health resources or host community-based support groups. Talk to a therapist or psychiatrist, or call 988 if you need immediate help.

While many welcome the crisp air and cozy traditions, it’s worth remembering that Louisiana’s autumn carries a unique mix of beauty and stress. From the uncertainty of late-season hurricanes to the quiet impact of shorter days, fall can test both our resilience and our mental well-being.

Staying informed about storm forecasts, carving out time for sunlight during the day, and leaning on community and professional resources can make a real difference. As we celebrate the season’s arrival, let’s also keep an eye on one another (and on our own mental health) so we can move through autumn with safety, support, and a little more peace of mind.

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