In the Fall and Winter (North) or rainy season (South), when the weather is gloomy for a long time, many people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) often begin to become more sensitive (depressed).
“It is worth noting that SAD is classified into the group of depressive disorders.
Why is there SEASONAL affective disorder?
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The root cause of this disease, according to Emily Manoogian (PhD at the Salk Institute for Biological Research, California, USA), begins with a disruption in the circadian rhythm cycle (the `clock` that performs
“For thousands of years, our circadian rhythm has been influenced by natural light, meaning that in the fall or winter, when the light decreases and the sky becomes darker, the body (pineal gland)
In addition, a decrease in serotonin or melatonin is also thought to be the cause of the disease, making your mood more sensitive.
Tips for living
Understand chronotype (biological time) to ensure health and work more effectively
Symptom
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With Fall-Winter seasonal affective disorder (or rainy season), symptoms often appear during months with cold temperatures, gloomy weather or prolonged periods of rain (especially for people who work).
More sensitive mood than usual (moody, depressed, increased rejection sensitivity – tendency to be anxious or overreact when rejected, panic).
Loss of interest and enjoyment in daily activities and social withdrawal.
Sleep more.
Craving for foods high in carbohydrates, weight gain.
Exhaustion, aching limbs.
However, some cases of SAD only exhibit one symptom, or have symptoms that contradict the above signs.
Tips to help you reduce seasonal psychological disorder
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According to Dr. Emily Manoogian, depending on the level of disease you are experiencing (mild, moderate, severe), there will be different solutions.
If seasonal affective disorder is seriously disrupting your life, see your doctor or psychologist.
Additionally, while it’s not guaranteed to reverse SAD, you can still do the following to create stability in your circadian rhythm:
Create certain routines, especially if you work from home
This doesn’t mean you have to create a rigid schedule.
Exercise regularly in the morning
Exercise is always a great way to improve your mental and physical health, in this case, it’s also a way to increase your exposure to sunlight.
However, you should avoid exercising in the evening, especially before going to bed to avoid your body mistaking that night is your active time.
Get plenty of exposure to natural light.
The amount of light we absorb at different times of the day is important.