Why the Weather Affects Our Mood and Tips to Beat the Rainy Day Blues
As June rolls around, many of us look forward to outdoor dining, pub gardens, and picnics. However, the recent rainy days have forced us to reach for umbrellas instead. The ever-changing weather this summer has made it necessary to layer up, and our moods often reflect the grey, gloomy skies above. Experts have delved into how the weather impacts our mood, energy levels, and mental well-being, shedding light on the biology behind the “rainy day blues” and offering advice on how to combat them.
How does the weather influence our mood? Psychologist Antonio Kalentzis explains that the weather can significantly impact our mood and mental health through various biological mechanisms. For instance, sunshine boosts serotonin levels, which in turn improves our mood and overall sense of well-being. Conversely, cloudy or rainy days can lead to reduced serotonin production, resulting in feelings of sadness or lethargy. Exposure to natural light also plays a crucial role in regulating our circadian rhythms, influencing our sleep patterns and overall mental health.
London-based psychologist Barbara Santini highlights the importance of vitamin D in our mood and brain functioning. Vitamin D, synthesized through sunlight exposure, supports brain health and function. Deficiencies in vitamin D have been linked to depressive symptoms. During rainy seasons when sunlight exposure is limited, vitamin D production may drop, exacerbating feelings of depression or fatigue. Additionally, Dr. Laura Geige points out that dark, tumultuous clouds can impact the hormone that regulates sleep, leading to fatigue as the body produces more melatonin during darker days.
What negative impacts can this have on our daily lives? From a psychological perspective, weather can influence our willingness to engage in activities that impact our mental health. For example, gloomy skies may discourage outdoor activities that boost energy and serotonin levels. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), characterized by periods of depression following seasonal patterns, can be triggered by bad weather. Symptoms of SAD include low mood, anxiety, stress, and fatigue, with more severe cases leading to aggression, insomnia, headaches, reduced appetite, and brain fog. Additionally, rising temperatures can trigger mood episodes in individuals with conditions like bipolar disorder, causing manic episodes and other mental health issues.
How can we mitigate these negative impacts? While we can’t control the weather, there are lifestyle changes and strategies recommended by mental health experts to combat the rainy day blues. Regular physical exercise is advised to boost energy levels and improve mood. Getting out and about to maximize sun exposure, even on cloudy days, or using light therapy lamps can help regulate serotonin and melatonin levels. Maintaining a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and social connections are also crucial for mental well-being.
Experts emphasize the importance of staying connected and engaging in social activities, whether indoors or virtually, to combat feelings of isolation. Anyone experiencing persistent symptoms of SAD is encouraged to seek help from their local GP or mental health professional. Prioritizing mental well-being, regardless of the weather outside, is essential for maintaining a positive outlook and overall health. So, even when the clouds gather and the rain falls, remember that there are ways to beat the rainy day blues and rediscover that summertime energy within you.