Embracing Seasonal Change: How Shifting Weather Affects Our Mental Health
As the shadows lengthen, the air grows crisper, and leaves begin to change, many of us feel a shift — not just in the weather, but in our mood and energy. The changing of the seasons can have a powerful effect on mental health, and it's something we often underestimate.
Why Do Seasons Affect Our Mental Health?
Our minds and bodies are more in tune with nature than we might realize. Changes in daylight, temperature, and routine all play a role in how we feel day to day.
Less daylight = less serotonin. In fall and winter, shorter days mean less sunlight. This can lead to a drop in serotonin — a brain chemical linked to mood — and disrupt our internal clock, contributing to feelings of depression or fatigue.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): About 5% of U.S. adults experience this form of depression each year, most commonly in winter. Symptoms can include low energy, changes in sleep or appetite, and a general sense of hopelessness.
Transitional stress: Even the excitement of spring or summer can be stressful. Changes in routine (like school starting, vacations ending, or holidays approaching) can create anxiety or pressure, especially for those with existing mental health conditions.
Signs You Might Be Affected by Seasonal Change
Feeling more tired than usual
Changes in sleep or appetite
Trouble focusing
Feeling “off” or out of sync without an obvious reason
Increased irritability or sadness
Coping with the Changing Seasons
The good news is, there are simple, effective ways to take care of your mental health as the seasons shift:
Get natural light
Try to spend at least 15–30 minutes outside each day, especially in the morning. If that’s hard, consider a light therapy lamp that mimics sunlight.
Stay active
Movement boosts endorphins and helps regulate sleep. Even a short daily walk can lift your mood.
Stick to a routine
As days get shorter, it’s easy to slip into irregular sleep and eating patterns. A stable routine helps your body and mind stay grounded.
Check in with yourself
Journaling, meditating, or simply pausing to ask, “How am I doing today?” can help you catch mental health changes early.
Reach out
Don’t hesitate to talk to a friend, family member, or therapist if you’re struggling. You're not alone — and you don't have to figure it out alone.
Being Mindful in Transition
Every season brings something new: a chance to slow down, to reflect, to grow. Rather than resist the changes, we can try to embrace them with curiosity and compassion. Just like nature, we have seasons too — and every season has its purpose.