Sad Girl Autumn: An All Too Unwell Recap

Written by Aileen McManus

Well, November is coming to a close, which means we can look back on our gloomy and emotional fall. So grab one last pumpkin flavored drink from Starbucks, and stare out of some foggy window as we discuss this less vivacious relative of *hot girl summer*.

It starts with the music dropping, then our moods:

The sad girl autumn season has been owned by leading ladies in the music industry. All around you’ve seen playlists full of Mitski and Clairo, who both graciously gave us the most sad girl albums for teenagers… ever. I can neither explain nor deny the grip ‘Nobody’ has on people. BUT those were both albums previously released, we haven't even gotten to the singles and albums we have received this month. I mean, Adele really did a number on us all, and that number is ‘30’. The reigning queen of sad girls released a new studio album titled ‘30’ earlier this month and it's a 12 track, feeling-packed gift. THEN we get the re-recorded version of ‘Red’ by Taylor Swift. The new sad girl anthem on the record: All too well (10 minute version) which has a Sad Girl Autumn remix. I mean, come on.

Junior, Molly McCann also says “I love listening to 50/60s” which is another wonderful option for the season's moody vibe. We have the most seasonally sad playlist ever this year.

When I sat down with McCann in the hallway, she was clad in a cozy college sweatshirt and was excited to give a recap. “Definitely reading” was her average go-to this fall. She also gave us her dream autumn fantasy. “Taking hikes, and just taking pictures of all the leaves and the trees, I love the way nature looks in autumn!” Well, she just read some minds there.

But, we also sat and chatted about the stress that can come with the lovely weather. People with and without a seasonal affective disorder can find drastic changes with their moods, especially in teens. “It’s definitely interesting to see how people change throughout the season, people are just really stressed right now with midterms.” McCann continues to recap her experience this fall. “And the shooting that happened the other day, it’s just a lot going on at once.” Which is why this phenomenon/trend has been a wonderful escape. “It gives people an outlet to channel all their emotions”.

Rewatching comfort shows and books, along with listening to sad music can provide a safe and sound way to express your stress, so don’t be afraid to bundle up and rewatch some Gilmore girls in your pjs.

Cover image from Taylorswift.com