How Changes In Seasons Impact Your Mood

The leaves on the trees are not the only things that change during the autumn. Your moods could, too. Science has discovered that a feeling of blueness or sadness is a real effect of the changing of the seasons, especially during the transition of autumn into winter. Seasonal mood shifts change different people in different ways, but some common effects include having less energy, feeling less interested in socializing or engaging in favorite activities, wanting to eat more carbohydrates or comfort foods and experiencing changes in sleep patterns. Understanding how changes in seasons impact your mood allows you to take action and seek help if you need it.

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The Biggest Seasonal Variable on Your Mood

While a lot of people complain about the cold air during the transition of spring into summer or autumn into winter, science shows that it’s something else affecting your mood.

The biggest seasonal variable on your mood is daylight.

The length of the day has the biggest impact on how you feel.

Day Length Impacts Hormones

The longest day of the year is the summer solstice. As summer turns into autumn, the sunrise is later. The sun sets earlier each day until the autumn equinox. This pattern continues until the winter solstice, which is the shortest period of daylight. The duration of daylight impacts your hormones.

It has a considerable role in regulating your serotonin.

This hormone is one of many that are responsible for your mood and sense of well-being.

Daylight and Its Effects on Sleep

Serotonin levels also impact melatonin. This is a hormone that makes you feel sleepy, and your body naturally produces it close to bedtime. However, the length of daylight has a big impact on your body’s natural rhythm. This is called your circadian rhythm. It is set by your exposure to daylight. The shorter daylight in the late autumn and winter disrupts your circadian rhythm.