Monsoon blues: Here’s why the rainy season may be making you sad

Researchers from Brigham Young University have introduced the term “monsoon blues” to describe the phenomenon of mood disorders experienced by individuals on rainy days when sunlight is scarce. This study, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, sheds light on the connection between weather conditions and emotional well-being.

While monsoon blues is not recognised as a clinical disorder, it could indicate the presence of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), she added.

Let’s understand what SAD is.

Dr Beppari said SAD is one of the recognised forms of depression that usually occurs in a seasonal pattern. “It is believed to be related to changes in exposure to natural light, which can disrupt the body’s internal clock and lead to a range of symptoms. Reduced sunlight exposure plays a significant role in SAD by affecting the production of melatonin and serotonin, neurotransmitters that regulate mood. Disruptions to circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles, may also contribute to the development of SAD,” she said.

Dr Soumiya Mudgal, Senior Consultant, Mental Health And Behavioural Sciences, Psychiatry, Max Hospital, Gurgaon said some people have more predisposition to change in their mood because of the change in weather and that happens because of our circadian rhythm.

The monsoon season can give way to feelings of melancholy or fatigue due to continuous rainfall for certain individuals, (Source: Freepik)

“It becomes a cause of concern when you start seeing such mood changes cyclically – that means every season, every monsoon or winter season. When it starts, you see a drop in the mood. You start feeling the same symptoms and with every cycle, if the severity of these symptoms increases to the extent that your functioning goes down, then it is a point of concern where it becomes important to see your clinician or psychiatrist so that they can assess you for the seasonal affective disorder,” said Dr Mudgal.

Aishwarya Raj, a clinical psychologist based in Delhi-NCR, also said monsoon blues may become a cause for concern when the symptoms significantly interfere with a person’s daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. “If the low mood persists for an extended period, worsens over time, or is accompanied by thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it is crucial to seek professional help immediately,” said Raj.

She added monsoon blues can affect people in different ways, but common symptoms include feelings of sadness, fatigue, lethargy, decreased motivation, irritability, changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, and a general sense of low mood. “The changes in the weather, reduced sunlight, and increased humidity during the monsoon season are believed to contribute to these symptoms.”

So, how can you manage and prevent monsoon blues?

Here are some strategies shared by Raj.

*Stick to a regular daily routine that includes activities you enjoy and that promote your well-being.

*Engaging in regular physical exercise can boost mood and energy levels. Indoor exercises, such as yoga, aerobics, or workouts at a gym, can be alternatives when outdoor activities are limited due to heavy rainfall.

*Try to spend time outdoors during breaks in the rain or when the sun is visible. Exposure to natural light can help regulate circadian rhythms and improve mood.

*Stay connected with friends, family, and loved ones. Engage in social activities or plan indoor gatherings. Talking about your feelings and concerns with a trusted person can provide emotional support.

*Consume a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

*Prioritise a regular sleep schedule and aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night.

Regarding the treatment of monsoon blues, some of the options can include a combination of therapies and self-care strategies, Dr Beppari said.

“Light therapy or phototherapy, is a common treatment for SAD, involving exposure to bright artificial light that mimics natural sunlight. This therapy helps regulate the body’s internal clock and alleviate depressive symptoms. In severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective, medication, such as antidepressants, may be prescribed,” she added.

📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!