How to Combat Weekend Anxiety

Discover effective tips to combat weekend anxiety and prevent the dreaded Sunday Scaries. Say goodbye to stress and embrace relaxation on weekends.

Managing Stress: Understanding the Sunday Scaries

Do you ever find yourself dreading the end of the weekend? That feeling of anxiety and unease that creeps in on Sunday evenings, ruining your relaxation and making it difficult to enjoy the rest of your weekend? If so, you're not alone. I struggle with anxiety and it can get especially bad on the weekends with less distractions and more time to think. Then I spiral into a panic attack or spend hours on end researching various diseases I could possibly have on the internet only to have a panic attack thinking I have cancer (this happens twice a week or so...am I alone in this?). I'm so used to overworking myself and working way more than 40 hours a week that sometimes I feel almost guilty for taking a break and allowing myself to be lazy. I read one of my favorite books that I've read a million times, but it always puts me in a light hearted and playful mood.

Many people experience this and what's commonly known as the Sunday Scaries, a term used to describe the heightened anxiety and stress that often occurs as the weekend comes to a close. The Sunday Scaries can be particularly challenging for those who struggle with anxiety. With fewer distractions and more time to think, it's easy for your mind to start spiraling.

But fear not, my friends! I've discovered some effective tips to combat the Sunday Scaries and prevent them from ruining your weekends. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let's dive in!

Planning Social Activities With Friends

One of the best ways to ward off the Sunday Scaries is by planning social activities with friends. Spending time with loved ones can provide a much-needed distraction from negative thoughts and anxiety. So why not plan a dinner with friends? It's a great chance to catch up, have some laughs, and create positive memories that will carry you through the week ahead.

Remember, connecting with others  is not only fun but also essential for our mental well-being. So don't hesitate to reach out to your friends and plan some quality time together. It's a surefire way to beat those Sunday Scaries!

Incorporating Relaxing Hobbies

Incorporating relaxing hobbies into your weekend routine can work wonders for combating the Sunday Scaries. Whether it's sewing, painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, finding an activity that brings you joy and helps you unwind is key.

Personally, I've recently taken up sewing, and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer — even if I find myself sewing creations that I thought would be genius only to be an epic fail. Not only does it provide a creative outlet, but it also helps me focus my mind on something other than my worries and anxieties. Plus, there's a great sense of accomplishment that comes from creating something with your own hands (even if you're like me and end up making a dress that you can't fit over your shoulders or hips only to save it for scraps for your next project of making vests for your cat).

So if you haven't already, find a hobby that speaks to you and dedicate some time to it on the weekends. You'll be amazed at how much it can improve your mood and reduce stress. And who knows, you might even discover a hidden talent!

The Importance of Meal Prepping

Another effective strategy for preventing the Sunday Scaries is meal prepping. Taking the time to plan and prepare your meals for the week ahead can alleviate the stress of wondering what to eat and ensure you're nourishing your body with healthy, balanced meals.

Not only does meal prepping save you time and energy during the week, but it also allows you to make healthier food choices. When we're stressed or anxious, it's easy to reach for comfort foods that may not be the best for our well-being. But by having nutritious meals ready to go, you can avoid the temptation to indulge in unhealthy options and instead fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive.

So set aside some time on Sundays to plan your meals, go grocery shopping, and prepare your ingredients. You'll thank yourself later when you have delicious, stress-free meals waiting for you throughout the week.

Creating Memorable Date Days

If you and your partner both have Sundays off like my partner Michael and I do, why not make the most of it by planning memorable date days? Too often, we find ourselves with a free day but no plans, and end up wasting it by staying home and feeling guilty for not being productive.

But by intentionally planning activities to do together, you can turn your Sundays into special and meaningful days. For example, Michael and I love going to our favorite coffee shop and getting chai tea lattes, reminiscing about our first date there. We also enjoy taking leisurely walks around the living desert zoo since we have passes, or even just browsing through Home Goods for inspiration to spruce up our place.

Today, we decided to have a picnic by the pool with fresh fruit, charcuterie, and iced teas in mason jars topped with cute little umbrellas. It was simple yet delightful, and it reminded us of the importance of taking time to relax and enjoy each other's company.

So if you find yourself with a free Sunday, don't let it go to waste. Plan a date day with your partner and create memories that will bring a smile to your face throughout the week. 

Reading Away Your Worries

Reading self-improvement books can be a powerful tool in preventing the Sunday Scaries. By diving into books that focus on personal growth and development, you can shift your mindset towards positivity and motivation. Whether you're exploring topics like mindfulness, goal setting, or resilience, self-improvement books offer valuable insights and strategies for overcoming anxiety and stress. So, why not dedicate some time on Sundays to curl up with a good book that inspires and uplifts you? Not only will it help calm your mind and reduce anxiety, but it can also set a positive tone for the week ahead. Remember, investing in your personal growth is a powerful way to combat the Sunday Scaries and embrace a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Hakuna Ma-Whata?

While I envy those who can effortlessly embrace the Hakuna Matata attitude and live in the moment, I understand that for those of us struggling with anxiety and future-tripping, it's not always that simple. However, by incorporating the methods mentioned above into your weekend routine, you can take steps towards managing stress and combating the Sunday Scaries. Connecting with friends, engaging in relaxing hobbies, meal prepping, planning memorable date days, and reading self-improvement books are all powerful tools in alleviating anxiety and promoting a more present and fulfilling life. Remember, it's okay to seek support and implement strategies that work best for you. By prioritizing self-care and nourishing your mind, body, and soul, you can gradually shift towards a mindset of peace and contentment. So, don't be discouraged by feelings of jealousy towards those who seem to have it all figured out. Instead, focus on cultivating a sense of connection with yourself and others, and watch as your weekend anxiety begins to fade away.