It's common knowledge that during seasonal changes, our bodies go through an adaptation phase – there are mood swings and consequently behavioral changes, as well as physical symptoms. These changes are even referred to as "seasonal depression," however, it's more associated with winter, due to the colder and rainier weather, and earlier sunsets… however, this is a phenomenon that also occurs when we move from a rainy and "dark" season to a more "colorful" season, like spring, which begins today!
The change of seasons influences both our physical and mental health – and these two influence each other, so it's always necessary to seek a balance between them.
It is known that climate change, namely increased temperatures, as well as longer periods of sun exposure, can make us feel: tiredness, weakness, lack of energy and motivation (even for the simplest tasks), irritability, difficulty sleeping, etc. Our routines and schedules are altered, thus influencing our circadian rhythm – the 24-hour cycle that includes our physiological and behavioral cycles and that regulates our appetite, body temperature, hormone levels, blood pressure, metabolism, and sleep.
All the previous changes, combined with the expectations and "pressure" we may feel to be active and happy - associated with longer, sunnier days, the colors of the season, the blooming of flowers, and seeing other people being more active at this time and "making the most of the day" - can make us feel anxious and/or sad, adding to the feeling of guilt when we compare ourselves to others.
Therefore, it is important to recognize and accept these changes, allowing time for our body and mind to adapt and practicing self-care in order to facilitate this process, such as:
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins;
- Stay hydrated;
- Practice physical exercise regularly;
- Adapt schedules and maintain routines;
- Set aside some time each day to relax and do something you enjoy;
- Sleep between 7 and 9 hours;
- Be careful with excessive screen time (TV, social media, etc.);
- Seek medical and/or psychological support if you feel the need.
Coincidentally, today is also International Happiness Day. Reiterating what has already been said, it's essential to remember that we cannot compare ourselves to others and that happiness is a subjective term – the things that make someone happy may not make us happy... how many times haven't we heard comments like "I don't understand why you're sad, you have everything, everything is going well for you," or "I don't understand, you have the perfect life"... but all these questions have different meanings for everyone. For this reason, we should try to be more empathetic towards each other, work on our self-knowledge and self-care, and avoid comparisons.
Dr. Telma Gomes - Taipas Termal Mental Health and Therapy Unit
