This summer I heard this term used by young adults who were getting ready to return to work on Mondays. I did not know what it meant so I decided to ask them. According to them it meant dread of returning to work on Monday. I asked what was causing them dread and they were not really able to pinpoint it.

They described having a feeling of anxiety and fear of not being able to meet the demands of their jobs. They felt more isolated due to not needing to be in an office to do their jobs. Prior to Covid most of them enjoyed being able to walk to someones office and bounce off ideas and now they needed to ask them to join via google chat. They voiced that they worried that they would be viewed as not knowing how to do their jobs rather than being someone who was asking out of the box questions due to having to ask colleagues to have an unscheduled meeting. They feared that requests may annoy others who are busy trying to get their own jobs done.

I listened to them and thought , I get it. I can see how young adults who are just mastering their skills can worry about this. Employees who have been working in companies for several years or have several years of work experience may not have the same concerns.

How can we support each other to lessen these feelings of Sunday Blues.

Companies should recognize that this is a real concern for the newer employee. The solution may be to identify staff in the company who will be mentors for newer employees.

Colleagues can be educated to understand that this is a common phenomenon and be open to dialogue to identify ways to decrease Sunday Scaries.

What can you do if you are the one who experiences this?

First, enjoy your days off starting Friday Evening through Sunday Evening.

Ensure that you are taking care of your need to eat healthy, exercise and rest.

Your body truly does reward moderation.

I Have observed in these same young people that they experienced an increased level of the Sunday Blues after partying to an excessive level and not having enough rest to offset the partying.

On Sunday, realize that Monday is coming whether you want it to or not so take a deep breath and try to relax.

Have a routine such as getting your clothes ready for Monday and packing a lunch if that is what you need. Ensure that you organize your to do list for Monday.

Begin your Monday with the items that need your most energy and end your day with something that is less taxing.

Remember that there is always tomorrow and not everything on your list is going to get done.

You can organize your day into: Must do today , can do tomorrow and can do by the end of the week.

Take time during your day for a break and if the weather is good go outside for some natural Vitamin D. Sunlight often helps us smile.

Remember to not be hard on yourself. We are all trying to navigate our roles in life. Maybe in time you will be the one able to give advice or what worked for you to others who are experiencing these feelings.

Have a wonderful end to your weekend and a fantastic Monday. View it as a new day to promote your positive energy and terrific ideas.