HEALTH IS WEALTH MAGAZINE
Wellness
How Seasonal Changes Affect Our Mood
and What to Do to Balance It
As the weather changes and seasons progress, many people experience shifts in their mood. These changes are especially common during the transition from summer to autumn, when days become shorter, temperatures drop, and sunlight decreases. This seasonal variation can trigger feelings of sadness, fatigue, and in some cases, even depression. In this article, we’ll explore how seasonal changes affect our mood and what steps we can take to maintain emotional balance during autumn. Several reasons explain why seasonal changes can impact our emotional well-being. One of the main causes is the decrease in sunlight. Exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that enhances mood. As days shorten and we spend less time outdoors, the body produces less serotonin, which can lead to feelings of sadness and lack of motivation. Why Seasonal Changes Affect Our Mood Additionally, sunlight is a crucial source of vitamin D, which also plays a role in mood regulation. A lack of vitamin D has been associated with symptoms of depression and fatigue, and many people experience low levels of this vitamin during the autumn and winter months.
Another contributing factor is the circadian rhythm, which is our internal biological clock. This clock is influenced by light and darkness, regulating our sleep- wake patterns. With the change of seasons, the circadian rhythm can become disrupted, affecting sleep quality and consequently our mood.
Common Symptoms of Seasonal Changes
Seasonal changes can trigger a range of emotional and physical symptoms. Some people experience mild forms of these symptoms, while others may develop a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Common symptoms include:
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