Based on how and where you reside, you might observe significant changes as to how you snooze throughout the summer vs the winter.
Humans are programmed to rest whenever the sun goes down and get soon as the sun emerges. Light, as well as darkness, constitute important variables in sleep regulation. The region of the brain that governs hormones like melatonin as well as body temperatures is stimulated by light. As a result, whether we appear drowsy or awake is affected. Melatonin is a hormone that promotes drowsiness. Its levels rise when the sun goes down and stay high for nearly twelve hours. The number of daylight hours increases in most parts of the world as the year progresses.
What Exactly is SAD?
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a kind of depression that has a seasonal rhythm to it. The temperature declines as summer transitions to fall and winter, and the number of hours of sunlight decreases. SAD differs from serious depression in that it occurs at around the same time each year. These symptoms can be so severe that they disrupt everyday living and even put you in danger of suicide.
What Causes SAD?
Researchers are still attempting to unravel the complexity of seasonal mood shifts. They haven’t really been able to identify a single reason, but now they have discovered various biological answers. It may seem unduly simplistic to blame everything on a lack of sunlight, yet natural sunlight absorption does play a significant influence.
Common Symptoms of Summer and Winter SAD
Following are some of the main and most prevalent symptoms of both types of SADs.
Winter blues are a regular occurrence for many folks who live in northern latitudes. While Summer SAD can cause minor mood and affect changes, the symptoms are only transient and can be treated via lifestyle modifications including exercise, self-care, and meditation. SAD symptoms are similar to serious depression and influence practically every part of life for individuals who suffer from it. Low energy and a gloomy mood are the two most prevalent symptoms of SAD, regardless of whether a variant occurs. Individuals suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental illnesses may be influenced by the changing seasons, with symptoms intensifying during the winter months.
It may seem counterintuitive that relaxing before light for several moments each day would help with mood, but several studies show that it can. Phototherapy has become the most thoroughly researched remedy for seasonal affective disorder to date.
