Riding the Emotional Tides of the Seasons

Posted in Health, Mental Wellness


Feeling down in the summer heat or feeling gloomy rainy season? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) might be the reason. In the summer, when it's hot and people are feeling worn out and grumpy, or during the rainy season when the atmosphere feels gloomy, our mental health can really take a hit. This is often linked to a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is associated with emotional issues and depression. The change in seasons can cause chemical changes in the brain, usually brought on by a lack of sunlight exposure during the rainy and winter months. Let me tell you more about the causes and symptoms of SAD, as well as some tips on how to be mindful of it, cope with it, and prevent it.

Reasons Behind

During the rainy season, when it rains a lot, we don't get enough sunlight. And since we tend to stay inside more on rainy days, this can lead to vitamin D and serotonin deficiencies, which can contribute to emotional issues and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Younger people and women are more likely to develop SAD than older people and men. On those long, rainy or winter days when we don't get much sun exposure, our bodies and emotions can really start to suffer. The longer the gloomy season lasts, the longer the effects of SAD tend to last.

Symptom Spotlights

At the start of the rainy or winter months, when there is less sunlight, SAD symptoms tend to be more severe - especially if you don't have a healthy lifestyle. No matter how much you sleep, you still feel exhausted and depressed nearly every day. You lose interest in your usual activities. Emotions may intensify, causing issues like trouble concentrating, low self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness. People with SAD often crave high-carb foods, which can lead to weight gain.

Tips to Thwart

There's no surefire way to prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD), but it's important to take action as soon as you recognize the symptoms. If you start feeling overwhelmed by things like loss of appetite, fatigue, sleep issues, and intense emotional changes, you should work with a doctor to help overcome the disorder. If you've had SAD before, you're more at risk of it recurring due to climate changes, so it's a good idea to prepare beforehand, when the weather starts changing. SAD is a mental health condition that requires serious attention - without proper care, it can lead to social withdrawal, substance abuse, and even suicide. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and support, as managing SAD effectively can help you maintain your overall well-being throughout the year. Early intervention and a proactive approach, including light therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, can significantly improve your quality of life. Don't hesitate to reach out for help and support, as managing SAD effectively can help you maintain your overall well-being throughout the year. 


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