Cold weather can increase feelings of depression; better understand

Popularly known as the “winter blues,” this sensation is characterized by experts as a seasonal winter blues.

Winter has brought many Brazilians a milder temperature and chilly mornings. However, for many others, this time can be characterized as a time of heightened sadness. And no, we’re not just talking about that feeling of discomfort upon waking up on the coldest days: it’s the winter seasonal depression.

This feeling of sadness is also referred to by experts as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and popularly known as the “winter blues”. The term in English is not for nothing, after all this experience is quite common in European and North American countries, where the temperate climate is predominant. Although common there, seasonal winter blues can be experienced in tropical regions, such as Brazil.

This is explained by Rogério Bosso, who is a psychologist lack of light and social distancing are factors that influence this situation. However, the practitioner guarantees that the station is not responsible for the depression.

“A freezing wave cannot be considered an isolated cause of a diagnosis of depression, however the trend is for some to choose to stay home and have less contact with the sun during this time, which can worsen the symptoms of depressed people. or cause the specific picture of the TAS, “Rogério emphasizes.

Better understand seasonal winter blues

In Brazil, winter is a season with cloudy skies and cold fronts longer, factors that can influence the increased production of melatonin, a hormone that acts to induce sleep and maintain the nocturnal pattern of sleepiness in people.

THE little sunlight of the period also affects the absorption of vitamin D, related to the fight against depressive symptoms. It is also responsible for decreasing the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the body, neurotransmitters responsible for the feeling of happiness and able to regulate brain activities.

According to the NGO Mental Health America, seasonal winter blues it is more common in women and adults in their 20s and 30s. Additionally, a person suffering from winter blues may experience symptoms such as:

• mood changes;
• insomnia or lack of sleep;
• changes in appetite (increase or absence);
• weakness;
• irritability;
• little motivation in common activities (home or work routines).

Treatment for seasonal affective disorder:

According to Rogério Bosso, who is also an academic in the area, the treatment must be done with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. It is also important to adopt a a healthy lifestyleincluding regular physical activities and good nutrition, as these practices regulate the production of hormones in the body and reduce the chances of developing emotional problems.

“When identifying the symptoms of depression, both in low temperatures and in hot seasons, it is advisable to seek a qualified professional for adequate treatment”, concludes the specialist.

Source: Rogério Bosso, psychologist, professor and coordinator of the Psychology course at Faculdade Anhanguera.

Source: Terra

Benjamin

Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.