When the Seasons Change, So Can Our Mental Health
Written by Heather Stuyvesant, Director of Development
There’s something special about fall in Iowa. The cooler mornings, changing leaves, and familiar routines that come with a new season are things many of us look forward to.
But as the days grow shorter and the sunlight begins to fade a little earlier each evening, some of us notice another kind of change.
Maybe it’s a little harder to get out of bed in the morning. Maybe our energy isn’t quite what it was a few weeks ago. Or perhaps we’re feeling less motivated, more irritable, or simply not quite ourselves.
It’s easy to brush off these feelings as part of adjusting to a new season. And sometimes, that’s exactly what they are. But for some people, seasonal changes can have a more significant impact on mental health.
Why Do Shorter Days Affect How We Feel?
Sunlight plays an important role in regulating our body’s internal clock, which influences our sleep, energy, and daily rhythms. As daylight hours decrease during the fall and winter months, some people experience changes in mood, sleep, and motivation.
For some, these changes may be associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that follows a recurring seasonal pattern, most commonly beginning in the fall or winter.
Symptoms can include persistent sadness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, withdrawing from others, or losing interest in activities that once brought enjoyment.
But not everyone who notices a change in mood as the seasons shift is experiencing seasonal depression. Understanding the difference between temporary changes and symptoms that may need additional attention is important.
Dr. Geoffrey Hills, a psychiatrist at the Center, offers this perspective:
“As the days get shorter, some people notice changes in their energy, sleep, and mood. While it’s normal to experience occasional ups and downs, persistent changes that begin affecting your daily life are worth paying attention to. The important thing to remember is that seasonal depression is treatable, and support is available.”
Small Ways to Care for Yourself This Season
While we can’t control the changing seasons, there are simple, intentional ways to support our mental well-being as we move into the colder months.
Make time for daylight and movement.
Spending time outdoors during daylight hours, even for a short walk, can help us maintain healthy routines and support our overall well-being. Physical activity can also have a positive effect on mood and energy.
Stay connected to the people who matter.
When we’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, it can be tempting to pull away from others. But meaningful connections with friends, family, and our community can provide encouragement, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
Pay attention to your routines and how you’re feeling.
Consistent sleep, regular meals, and making time for activities you enjoy can help support emotional well-being. Just as importantly, give yourself permission to notice when something feels different.
Sometimes we’re so busy caring for others, meeting responsibilities, and moving through our daily routines that we forget to check in with ourselves.
These small practices can support mental health, but they aren’t a substitute for professional treatment when symptoms of depression are present.
When Is It Time to Reach Out for Support?
One of the most important things to remember is that you don’t have to wait until things feel unmanageable to ask for help.
If changes in your mood, energy, sleep, or motivation persist, become more intense, or begin interfering with your relationships, work, or daily life, consider reaching out to a mental health professional.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is treatable. Depending on individual needs, treatment may include psychotherapy, medication, or light therapy. A qualified health care professional can help determine which options are appropriate. It’s important to seek medical guidance before beginning light therapy, particularly if you have certain eye conditions, take medications that increase light sensitivity, or have bipolar disorder.
At the Center, we believe caring for our mental health shouldn’t be reserved for life’s most difficult moments. Seeking support can be an important part of caring for ourselves throughout every season of life.
A Season for Paying Attention
One of the things I’ve come to appreciate in my work at the Center is that caring for our mental health doesn’t always require making big changes. Sometimes it begins with noticing that something feels different, giving ourselves permission to acknowledge it, and recognizing that we don’t have to figure everything out alone.
As we enjoy the beauty of fall and prepare for the winter months ahead, I hope we’ll all remember to extend ourselves a little of the same compassion we so readily offer others.
To recognize when we need rest. To reach out when we need connection. And to remember that asking for support is always an option.
Because while the seasons will continue to change, one thing remains constant: No one should have to navigate life’s challenges alone.
Questions or ready to schedule? Call (515) 274-4006 or request an appointment online. Our team at Mind & Spirit Counseling Center is here to help.
