Constant changes in air temperature and daylight levels during seasonal transitions also negatively affect mental health, and this effect may vary from person to person. With the arrival of autumn, nature begins to abandon its liveliness from summer, days become shorter and sunlight begins to decrease. As a result of the decrease in sunlight, the secretion of serotonin, also known as the happiness hormone, decreases, while the secretion of melatonin increases. Melatonin begins to be secreted when it gets dark and increases sleep. The decrease in serotonin causes symptoms such as weakness, exhaustion, tiredness and reluctance. This may lead to seasonal depression, also called winter depression. seasonal depression; It is a form of depression that appears in the autumn and winter months and whose symptoms generally decrease in the beginning of summer and spring.
While it is possible for individuals of all ages to encounter seasonal depression, which begins to manifest itself as the days get shorter and days with less light arrive, genetic factors have a high impact on susceptibility. If there is depression in the family, especially in first-degree relatives, that person will be at higher risk of depression. In addition, psychological factors, personality traits, and reserves of the person called coping mechanisms may be prone to depression or may be protective. A somewhat meticulous, obsessive personality structure, a dependent personality, social factors, periods of social uncertainty, or periods of uncertainty, transitions, and losses in one's private life may increase the susceptibility to depression.
The symptoms that are likely to be seen in this process. , not enjoying life, unhappiness, not wanting to do anything, not wanting to participate in activities that were previously enjoyed, irritability, sensitivity, crying spells, loss of energy, fatigue, weakness, depression, social withdrawal, excessive sleepiness, not being able to enjoy things that were previously enjoyed , increased appetite, difficulty concentrating, poor performance in school and work life, and lack of sexual reluctance. The difference that distinguishes seasonal depression from other forms of depression is that the symptoms last only a few months within the season (at least two years in a row), are absent in other seasons, and there is no other condition to explain this condition. �r.
If you see similar symptoms in yourself, consulting a psychologist and/or psychiatrist and getting professional help will save you from the symptoms becoming chronic.
So how can we protect ourselves from depression?
Adding stress-reducing elements to our lives, making changes in our daily lives, focusing on sports, swimming, walking, exercise, social activities, increasing pleasant activities, meeting with loved ones more often, being motivated to be more active and energetic at any time without postponing life and the day can be listed. The reluctance experienced during this period causes you to postpone the tasks and responsibilities you need to do. Missed responsibilities will cause new stress and unrest. Therefore, taking on the tasks and responsibilities that need to be done and starting without postponing will increase your motivation and will also allow you to feel better.
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