Weather changes may affect the mental status and temperament of some people. Winter season can cause winter depression, when the days are short and darkness entraps, people can become a victim of depression with the feeling of pessimism and desolation, have negative thoughts.
It is a seasonal affective disorder which occurs due to change of weather especially in fall and winter season. This condition is generally known as winter blues or winter depression. People living in northern areas are more susceptible to this disorder because of short days, lack of oxygen and light.
Winter depression can cause hormonal changes
Melanin: This hormone is involved in the sleep process. The sunshine in the morning stops the production of this hormone so that we wake up feeling fresh but in winters due to lack of sunshine over body continue to secrete this hormone so that we find it difficult to get out of bed and feel dizzy and malaise all day long.
Serotonin: This hormone has its role in happy mood, sleep process and stimulating hunger. But in winters due to gloomy atmosphere and lack of light, the production of this hormone falls below the normal level and cause depression and sadness.
How To Overcome Winter Depression:
Light Therapy: Patients with winter depression should sit in front of light box for at least 30 minutes which will help them in boosting their mood but this therapy will not work for everyone.
Talk Therapy: As the patient with this disorder feel loneliness so by sharing feelings with dear and near ones can improve the mental status.
Chocolates: Expensive chocolates have an added amino acid called tryptophan in it which is involved in the manufacturing of serotonin so having such chocolates can stimulate the production of serotonin in the body and relives anxiety and depression.
Go For Exercise and Listen To Music: Engaging in exercise and listening to your favorite can also do a good job.