The kids are home from school.
Its time for the parenting rampage of dinner, baths and bedtime.
I feel uneasy as I reflect on what I accomplished during the day before tackling this evening’s beast.
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I didnt write enough, work out, or get outside with the kids.
I feel as though Ive lost todays opportunities and cant get them back.
Its too late and I dread whats to come.
What Is Sunset Anxiety?
My feelings of dread and sadness as the day ends and nightfall comes?
The Experience of Sunset Anxiety
There are common feelings and experiences associated with sunset anxiety.
And for those who already struggle with sleep difficulties, sunset anxiety can exacerbate their problems.
Asan overachiever, sunset marks a moment where I cannot do as much as I want.
I begin panicking about what I can control during this limited time and space before I have to sleep.
As a parent, Im hypervigilant about going outside with the kids and dread being trapped inside.
The setting sun forces me to slow down and sit with myanxious thoughts.
is going too fast and I grieve what I wasnt able to do.
I have an urge to keep moving to suppress those worries.
So Ill give a shot to alternate between sitting mindfully with them and doing a bit of cleaning.
I focus on whatever I need to do physically and let the time pass naturally.
Dr. Romanoff also suggests scheduling social activities in the evening.
This could include getting more sleep, havinghigh-quality nutrition, and creating habits and routines to boost self-care.
Seek Professional Support
Youre not the only one who feels dread and agitation as the sun sets.
Its real and there are people who share a similar experience.
And if that’s not enough, maybe it’s time to seek professional help.
