Surviving the Sunday Scaries
Your guide to a stress-free Sunday!
by Sophie Abt ★ November 17th, 2025
Photo Credits: Isabella Andrade
Ever get that feeling around 6 p.m. on Sundays when your brain suddenly remembers: classes, deadlines, exams, life? Yeah, that’s the Sunday Scaries–aka the lingering emotional hangover from the weekend. We have all been there, even if you don’t realize it. Now I don't want to be harsh when I say this, but bed rotting is not the solution. It might feel comforting in the moment, but it usually makes your dread worse. With a few mindset shifts and tips, you can turn your Sunday dread into a reset day.
What Are the Sunday Scaries and Why Do We All Get Them?
The “Sunday Scaries” are that wave of anxiety or sadness that hits when the weekend ends. It’s your brain trying to prepare for the week ahead. Basically, your Sunday night brain is overthinking Monday morning.
In reality, college life doesn’t always leave much room for rest. Between catching up on sleep, going out, and cramming assignments into your “day off,” Sundays can feel more like a ticking clock than a reset.
Add in the pressure to “start the week strong,” and suddenly that cozy afternoon turns into chaos. But here’s the thing—Sundays don’t have to be scary. Reframing the way you look at Sunday can make it a chill, but still productive day.
Your Sunday Reset Routine
Here’s how to make your Sunday good instead of draining:
Reset. Clean your spaces, change your sheets, and get your room ready for the week ahead.
Plan, don’t panic. Write down your top three priorities for Monday. This way, you will at least get a few things done and are planning ahead.
Move your body. Whether it’s a walk or yoga, do something that makes you happy and gets you out of bed.
Feed your soul. Watch a comfort show, call your mom, or eat your favorite meal.
Sign off early. Get at least 8 hours of sleep, turn off your phone earlier than you usually would, and journal your goals for the week.
The Takeaway
The Sunday Scaries might never disappear completely—but they don’t have to control you. Think of Sundays as a calm start instead of a hard stop. You deserve to rest and recharge, not just survive until Friday.
Edited by: Madison Sherman