Seasonal change is more than about how comfortable you feel physically. Reduced sunlight, especially during cold or cloudy periods, can affect the body’s internal clock. It can lead to decreases in the amount of serotonin produced by the body. Most people associate these two with feelings of sadness and low energy. Sometimes it can also lead to irritability and lack of interest in doing things they enjoy.
Experts also note that individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions are particularly affected. “During seasonal change, we notice an increase in reports of patients. It is for those who experience increased symptoms of anxiety and mood swings. They face difficulty completing tasks.” It was stated by a senior mental health clinician at the centre.
Disturbances in sleep are also common. Changes in daylight and temperature can disrupt normal sleep patterns. It affects an individual’s ability to regulate his/her emotions and process information. Plus, the long-term effects of disrupted sleep-wake cycles can create a vicious cycle. In this, disrupted sleep contributes to worsening mental health symptoms.
