10 Things to Shed This Fall for Your Mental Health

Fall officially began on September 22, but with October here, it finally feels right to grab your favorite pumpkin-flavored drink and lean into the season. Many of us love fall for the cozy vibes, crisp air, and fun activities, but one thing that often slips through the cracks is our mental health.

Instead of waiting until New Year’s to start fresh, what if we mirrored the trees this fall? Just like they shed their leaves, we can shed the things that weigh us down. In honor of World Mental Health Day (October 10), here are ten things to let go of this season:

1. Negative self-talk

You know that feeling when you hear a friend talk badly about herself in the mirror—and you jump in to stop her, shocked she’d ever treat herself that way? So what’s your excuse? Next time you find yourself shame-spiraling, pretend you’re saying those words to a friend. If you wouldn’t treat her that way, why treat yourself that way? Let’s ditch the negative self-talk this fall.

2. Comparison to others

Comparison. They say it’s the thief of joy—and it’s true. Whether you’re scrolling on your phone or hanging out with friends, it’s easy to focus on what others seem to have that you don’t. But this fall, instead of comparing, let’s celebrate individuality. As corny as it sounds, there’s only one you. Embrace how you were made—flaws and all—and remember you’re not running in the same lane as anyone else.

3. Overcommitment

The holidays are coming, and suddenly your calendar is packed: a pumpkin patch on Friday, a fall market on Saturday, a work trip next week, and a dozen other things squeezed in. While saying yes can be good, make sure you’re not stretching yourself too thin. Even the most extroverted person needs downtime to stay grounded.

4. Holding grudges

With family gatherings and Thanksgiving on the horizon, tensions can sometimes run high. There may be relatives you struggle with or old conflicts that bubble back up. Carrying bitterness is like holding onto dead leaves. It only weighs you down. Resentment can stir up anxiety, stress, and even depression. Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting, but it does mean choosing peace of mind over mental exhaustion.

5. Bed rotting

Cooler weather and cozy blankets can make it tempting to stay in bed all day. While rest is important, too much inactivity can leave you feeling sluggish and even worsen symptoms of anxiety or depression. Movement is essential for mental health, so try to balance cozy downtime with walks, stretching, or activities that energize your mind.

6. Screen time overload

Too much scrolling can leave you drained, anxious, or disconnected from reality. This fall, give your brain a break by limiting screen time and soaking in the season around you. Fresh air and face-to-face moments are powerful protectors of your mental well-being.

7. Perfectionism

Perfectionism fuels anxiety, self-criticism, and burnout. Chasing impossible standards can leave you mentally exhausted. Instead of waiting for the New Year for a clean slate, take life day by day. Give yourself more grace and permission to enjoy life, even when it isn’t perfect. Progress over perfection is always healthier for your mind. Look at nature in the fall—there’s no perfection, but still so much beauty.

8. Bottling up emotions

While we love Mel Robbins and her “Let Them” theory, it doesn’t always work in every situation. You can always pick your battles, but if you let everything go, eventually you’ll explode. There’s a healthy way to speak your mind with respect and love, and it’s better for your heart and mind. Bottled emotions can lead to stress, irritability, and even depression. Sharing with a trusted friend or counselor can lighten the load and protect your mental health.

9. F-O-M-O (Fear of missing out)

FOMO is incredibly relatable, and social media has made it even more challenging. When you see a Halloween party online you weren’t invited to, or couldn’t attend, it can sting. But remember, you’re always right where you’re meant to be. No one can be everywhere. Focus on quality time, not just quantity. And if the pressure gets too much, take a break from socials! Step back, breathe, and free yourself from the endless FOMO.

10. Worrying about what you can’t control

Fall can feel unpredictable, with changes in the weather, holiday plans, and family dynamics. Constantly trying to control everything can cause anxiety and stress. Shedding this habit means focusing on what you can control and letting go of what you cannot. It’s a mental health reset that helps you feel calmer, lighter, and more present this season.

This fall, let’s let go of what no longer serves us

Just like the trees shed their leaves to make room for new growth, we can release habits, thoughts, and worries that weigh on our mental health. Whether it’s letting go of FOMO, perfectionism, or bottled-up emotions, each small step creates space for peace, joy, and clarity.

With World Mental Health Day on October 10, take a moment to reflect: what can you shed this season to nurture your mind, heart, and soul? Remember, you don’t have to wait for a new year or a perfect moment to shed what doesn’t serve you.

Read Next: Embracing Autumn: A Season for Self-Care