This article was produced in partnership with BetterHelp.
The end of August is a special time when it comes to sleep. After weeks of irregular nights, late bedtimes, and waking up without an alarm, the body suddenly has to readjust. The days are getting shorter, daily responsibilities are gradually returning, and many people find that their sleep patterns get disrupted at the worst possible time—right before things get back to normal. Difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night, feeling tired upon waking: these temporary discomforts are common during this transitional period.
Why the End of Summer Disrupts Sleep
Several factors come into play. During vacation, our internal clock often shifts: we go to bed later, wake up later, and our rhythm slows down. This new balance, which feels pleasant at the time, makes it more difficult to return to a regular schedule. As for the shorter days, they alter our exposure to light, which is an essential cue for the body in regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
Added to this is the psychological aspect. The prospect of going back to school, with all its obligations, can create a sense of tension at bedtime. The mind starts to anticipate, make lists, and ruminate—all of which delay falling asleep and fragment the night’s sleep.
Sleep and Mental Health: A Two-Way Connection
Sleep and psychological well-being are closely linked, and the influence works both ways. Poor-quality sleep can affect mood, concentration, and the ability to manage stress. Conversely, a period of stress or anxiety can be enough to disrupt sleep. Sleep regulation relies in particular on hormonal mechanisms such as melatonin, which is sensitive to light and daily rhythms.
This interaction explains why sleep difficulties at the end of summer should be taken seriously, without being overblown. In most cases, it’s a temporary disruption that resolves itself once new habits are established.
Regain a peaceful rhythm
A few simple adjustments can help reset your internal clock before school starts. Going to bed and waking up at regular times—gradually moving your bedtime forward by a few minutes each night—makes for a smooth transition. Exposure to morning light helps your body reset its internal clock, while limiting screen time in the evening makes it easier to fall asleep.
In the evening, a soothing ritual can make all the difference. Relaxation techniques, a few breathing exercises, or a quiet moment away from distractions help prepare the body for rest. The idea isn’t to force sleep, but to create the conditions that promote it.
When Difficulties Persist
For most people, this disruption resolves on its own as their sleep rhythm returns to normal. For some, however, nights remain difficult. When trouble falling asleep is accompanied by nighttime anxiety, anxious awakenings, or fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest—and the situation drags on—it may be helpful to talk to a professional rather than letting the problem take hold.
The Role of Regular Support
Since stress and anxiety are among the most common causes of sleep difficulties, psychological counseling can help address the factors disrupting your sleep. Support isn’t limited to crisis situations: for many people, regular counseling can provide a space to understand their tensions, calm their ruminations, and regain a more peaceful relationship with rest.
BetterHelp, an online therapy platform, operates along these lines. It connects users with certified and fully accredited therapists, clinical psychologists, and psychotherapists who are registered with the Regional Health Agency (ARS). More than 400 therapists are available in France through the platform. Sessions can take place via video chat, phone call, or text messages, depending on the individual’s preferences; between sessions, users can message their therapist, who responds as soon as possible.
The support remains flexible: you can pause or cancel your subscription at any time, and you can switch therapists—without providing a reason and at no additional cost—until you find the right fit. For those on a tighter budget, financial assistance is available upon request once registration is complete. You’ll be matched with a therapist after creating an account, based on a questionnaire that helps guide you toward a suitable therapist.
For those seeking support, consulting an online psychologist or starting therapy can be a first step toward more restful nights.
In summary
Experiencing sleep disturbances at the end of summer is a common occurrence, and is usually temporary. By gradually readjusting your sleep schedule, managing your exposure to light, and easing the stress associated with the start of the school year, it’s possible to regain more restful nights before school starts. And when difficulties persist or are accompanied by anxiety, psychological counseling can offer valuable support in regaining restful sleep.
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