Why do cloudy days bring us down, according to psychologists?

Cloudy days are excellent motivators for some people, but for others, they are occasions when sadness emerges without explanation. This lack of energy and motivation is linked to a phenomenon that specialists call Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) .

This is how For many, cloudy days and the absence of sun are associated with sadness, lack of motivation and even episodes of depression. .

According to psychologist Karla Sheila Madrigal Sánchez, this reaction is related to Seasonal Affective Disorder, a form of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, especially in autumn and winter, when sunlight decreases .

"We are solar beings. When we don't receive enough light, our mood is affected."

South African psychiatrist Norman Rosenthal was the first to describe SAD in 1980. This condition manifests with symptoms similar to depression:

1. Apathy
2. Excessive sleep
3. Weight gain
4. Irritability
5. A marked loss of interest in everyday activities

Although it is more common in autumn and winter, it can also occur in summer , depending on climatic or environmental factors.

What to do with Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Therapist Karla Madrigal recommends paying attention to emotional changes during this season. "It's normal to feel more down, but If symptoms worsen or persist for many days, it is important to seek professional help. .

There are several ways to deal with SAD: light therapy or phototherapy, the use of supplements such as vitamin D and melatonin, as well as personal self-care and strengthening support networks. .

In addition, it is recommended to take advantage of moments of natural light, go for a walk if the rain allows it, and avoid social isolation .

If during the rainy season you notice that the gray days affect you to the point of interfering with your daily activities, it could be more than just passing sadness. It's important to identify signs such as persistent fatigue, isolation, insomnia, or negative thoughts. In these cases, seeing a mental health specialist, such as a psychotherapist, is essential .

Seasonal Affective Disorder, although common, often goes unnoticed or is mistaken for "simple bad moods caused by the rain." Recognizing and addressing it can make a significant difference in the quality of life of those who suffer from it.

* * * Stay up to date with the news, join our WhatsApp channel * * *

OA