The October Slide: Why Autumn Feels Harder for People with Parkinson’s

I absolutely love Twitchy Woman, the brilliant blog by Sharon Krischer. Sharon lives with Parkinson’s and has built a thriving online community for women with the condition that has grown into something truly special. In her latest post, Sharon introduces a phrase I’d never heard before: the “October Slide.” It describes that subtle but noticeable dip in energy, movement, and mood that some people with chronic conditions feel when autumn rolls in. While it’s not an official medical term, the effects are real enough to notice. According to Sharon, the “October Slide” happens as days get shorter, colder, and darker. These seasonal shifts can make symptoms worse for people with Parkinson’s, much like they do for those with arthritis, migraines, or asthma. Common effects include fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, and pain. Sharon admits she’s been feeling a bit off herself lately—tired, less mobile, and struggling to get proper rest. She breaks down the possible culprits. Less daylight can play havoc with mood and sleep. It’s harder to keep your spirits up or sleep well when your body clock loses its rhythm. Cold weather doesn’t help either—it stiffens muscles, heightens pain, and makes it less appealing to get outside and move. Add to that the natural tendency to hibernate a bit more in autumn, and you’ve got a perfect recipe for sluggishness and isolation. But as always, Sharon’s focus is on solutions, not problems. She offers a handful of practical ways to fight back against the “slide.” Light therapy can help reset your internal clock and lift your mood. Dressing in layers keeps stiffness at bay. If the weather’s grim, indoor exercise can keep your body moving. Good sleep habits and regular social contact—whether with friends, family, or Parkinson’s groups—can make a world of difference. Her message is simple but important: if you’ve noticed changes in how you feel this month, don’t dismiss them. Be aware of what’s triggering them and take small steps to adjust. The days will lengthen again soon, but in the meantime, there’s plenty you can do to make autumn a bit easier on body and mind.