Revelations Quest Psychology

In this line of work, a psychologist/any other mental health clinician has come across individuals who just feel down and depressed during the cold season/weather, and just cannot explain it or understand it. For some, this is so much of a pattern that, they know when winter is approaching that their mood/affect will definitely change/drop, and it is a ride they need to prepare themselves for, including their loved ones. Believe it or not, this is quite plausible.

Feeling sad or depressed during winter/cold weather is a common experience for a lot of people, and can be linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder, where one experiences depressive symptoms/episodes during specific seasons, especially winter. Put simply, this type of affective episode is believed to be preceded/triggered by reduced sunlight, which contributes to the disruption of the body’s natural rhythm (sleep-wake cycle) and hormone/neurotransmitter levels (e.g. serotonin, melatonin, etc.).

Factors Contributing to Mood/Affect Changes in Cold Weather/Winter:

1. Reduced Sunlight and Circadian Rhythm: During this season/period, the decrease of sunlight can disrupt the body’s natural 24-hour internal clock (circadian rhythm), which relies on signals like light and darkness to regulate sleep, mood and other bodily functions.
2. Chemical Imbalances (Serotonin and Melatonin): Sunlight is known to play a role in regulating serotonin levels, which is a neurotransmitter associated with mood. With reduced sunlight, serotonin levels usually drop, potentially leading to a depressive state. Melatonin is a hormone known to regulate sleep, and with reduced sunlight, it gets produces in abundance, contributing to lethargy and sleepiness.
3. Vitamin D Deficiency: Reduced sunlight exposure can lead to lower vitamin D levels, which may further impact serotonin activity and mood, and ultimately energy levels.
4. Genetics and re-existing Mental Illnesses: While the exact cause of Seasonal Affective Disorders is not fully understood, other factors like genetics and existing mood disorders can also play a role. For example, women are more likely to be affected by Seasonal Affective Disorders than men, and the risk increases with age. 

Signs and Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder:

Signs and symptoms of SAD may include:

• Feeling listless, sad or down most of the day, nearly every day
• Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed (anhedonia)
• Having low energy and feeling sluggish
• Having problems with sleeping too much
• Experiencing carbohydrate cravings, overeating and weight gain
• Having difficulty concentrating
• Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty
• Having thoughts of not wanting to live/death

When to Seek Professional Help:

It is normal to have some days when you feel down/sad. But if you feel down for days at a time and you cannot get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, see your health care provider. This is especially important if your sleep patterns and appetite have changed, you turn to alcohol for comfort or relaxation, or you feel hopeless or think about suicide.

Treatment options include light therapy, medication, and psychotherapy.