JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Many people experience brief periods of sadness or feel different from their usual selves when seasons change or gloomy weather looms for long periods.
A local doctor told News4JAX she has been getting more patient calls in the last three weeks due to gloomy weather.
“Here at LFS Health Systems, we’ve been hearing people really complaining about lethargy, inability to concentrate, memory issues, feeling sad and depressed —just no get up and go,” Christine Cauffield, PsyD, President and CEO of LSF Health Systems, said.
We asked our News4JAX Insiders and followers on social media if the continuous rainy days in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia have impacted their mood.
Related: Signs of seasonal depression and how to cope | Understanding seasonal affective disorder
“Yes, very much,” Erik S. said.
“I love this weather!” Sherlee L said. “Better than sunny and hot! Just hard to mow the lawn! I’m a native Floridian!”
“It makes me depressed and I miss my loved ones,” Judy J. said.
The sun isn’t just a huge star in the solar system, it also gives us energy.
“And from a physical point of view, our brain can be affected as a result of this as well,” Cauffield said. “Lack of light. And the lack of light can cause the lower production of serotonin, that is the feel-good neurotransmitter in our brain that helps us feel uplifted and improves our mood, etc. and when that’s interrupted it can cause those types of feelings.”
Doctor Cauffield has been practicing as a licensed psychologist since 1987 and said there are some things you can do to bounce back despite the lack of sunshine:
- Find the light: Well-lit places or take a trip to a place where the weather will be sunny
- Get active: Do activities that you love
- Move: Do not stay still
- How are you feeling? Is it affecting your normal routine?
If you do feel down don’t feel bad about it, it’s normal. Northern states experience this every year from a seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4−5 months out of the year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. This is mostly due to fewer days of sunlight.
No matter how long you are without sunshine, you should seek help if you feel yourself falling into a dark place.
LSF Health Systems has a 24-7 care line. You can call (877) 229-9098 and they can help you navigate to resources.
How has the recent stretch of gloomy and rainy weather in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia affected your mood and daily activities? Let us know below.