Seasonal affective disorder and the impact of decreasing daylight

As daylight hours decrease, many individuals experience increased fatigue, low mood, and lack of motivation. This phenomenon may be linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that typically emerges in late autumn or winter and improves in spring.

Research indicates that reduced natural light is a primary trigger, as it can disrupt the body's internal biological clock and affect the regulation of serotonin, which influences mood, and melatonin, which regulates sleep. Psychological factors, such as decreased physical activity and increased social isolation during colder months, can further exacerbate these feelings.

To manage these symptoms, experts suggest increasing exposure to natural light, such as through short morning walks. Psychological approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, specifically behavioral activation, can also help by encouraging planned enjoyable activities even when motivation is low.