From the warmth of the sun to the chill of a winter storm, is there a connection between weather and mood? Experts say yes! Read on to learn about the profound effects of weather on mood.
Weather & mood
The weather has been a topic of fascination and studies for centuries. Per goweatherforecast.gov, “A growing body of research found a strong relationship between mood and weather.” They cite a German study conducted in 1983 which investigated how weather impacts people’s state of mind. Subjects of the study were tasked with reporting their mood and general well-being on rainy and sunny days. Conclusions: Respondents described experiencing higher levels of momentary happiness on sunny days and lower levels on rainy days.
Symbolic association
Further studies indicate that good weather also affects mood through symbolic associations. In other words, moods are lifted by stimulating thoughts. Sunny days, for example, are typically associated with happy activities such as attending outdoor picnics, relaxing poolside, or swimming. Rainy days are ultimately more disappointing as they are associated with discomfort, such as stepping in a wet puddle or getting soaked in a driving rainstorm.
Sun exposure & wellness connection
During periods of great weather, spending time in the sunlight is inviting. There are immense physical benefits from moderate sun exposure. The skin makes vitamin D naturally when exposed to UV rays. Per American Cancer Society, the primary function of vitamin D is to keep bones and teeth strong by helping the body absorb and use calcium and phosphorus the right way. Vitamin D is also known to boost the immune system and energy levels. When vitamin D levels drop, deficiencies can occur and cause bone diseases, such as rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults, among other negative side effects.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Seasonal affective disorder is defined as a mood disorder subset in which people who typically have normal mental health throughout most of the year exhibit depressive symptoms at the same time each year. Studies show a link between low levels of vitamin D and seasonal affective disorder and mood changes. A lack of sunlight in the winter may contribute to SAD.
Natural light & serotonin
The presence of natural light on a sunny day releases serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and calm. Serotonin is a “feel good” chemical that carries messages between nerve cells in the brain and throughout the body. Per Cleveland Clinic, this chemical “plays a key role in body functions as mood, sleep, digestion, nausea, wound healing, bone health, blood clotting and sexual desire.” Levels that are too low can cause physical and psychological health problems. When serotonin levels are normal, people feel happier, focused, calmer, and more emotionally stable.
Too much of a good thing
While some sun exposure is beneficial for most people, there is a delicate balance. Too much sun or the lack of adequate sun protection may contribute to skin cancer. However, the link between vitamin D and cancer is mixed. More research is required to understand vitamin D’s role in preventing and controlling cancer.
Weather & physical discomfort
Changes in temperature and humidity can affect physical comfort and health. For instance, cold weather can exacerbate conditions such as arthritis, while hot and humid conditions can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. These physical discomforts directly influence mood, making people more irritable and less inclined to engage in physical activity when uncomfortable.
Weather & social activities
Weather also shapes our social interactions. Typically, warm weather invites people to engage in outdoor sports and social activities, thereby increasing human interactions. Inclement weather like snow and ice can lead to social isolation, particularly for older people who fear slip and fall accidents. This can lead to weather-related social isolation, limiting interactions and interfering with positive mental health.
Amplifying awareness
The warmth and tranquility of a sun-kissed day, the whisper of a summer breeze as it moves through the trees, or the rhythmic measure of rain softly tapping a tin roof can ease stress and anxiety. Likewise, extreme weather conditions such as shrill howling wind, booming thunder, and pounding rain can increase feelings of stress and anxiety, disrupting mental equilibrium. Each experience heightens awareness and response to the world around us.
Enhancing cognitive performance
The mental impact of weather extends beyond our emotions, influencing cognitive function and mental clarity. Research shows that exposure to natural environments, such as green spaces and sunlight, can enhance cognitive performance, creativity, and problem-solving skills. National Institute on Aging (NIA), a division of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, shared results of a study conducted by a team of researchers from prestigious Boston University, Harvard University, and Rush University’s Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago. In a nationwide study, innovative research was performed to evaluate the impact of green space on humans. Women living in areas with more green space had higher scores on thinking speed, attention, and overall cognitive function possibly related to lower rates of depression. The study concluded that exposure to green space may support cognitive health.
A relationship
The conclusion of the 1983 study, and the more recent nationwide study, each demonstrate a relationship between people’s moods and conditions around them. Typically, rainy and overcast days tend to make people feel sluggish, whereas sunny days are more likely to provide uplifting energy. Additionally, exposure to green space has a positive impact on people. This points to the potential use of green space as therapy to combat depression and to reduce cognitive decline and dementia in older Americans.
Does weather affect mood? Predictions are in – Yes!
Weather has profound effects on how people feel, with sunnier days preferred by most for mood enhancement. Vitamin D production and an increase in serotonin levels from sunlight exposure are beneficial for human health. Therefore, most experts recommend that people get 10 to 30 minutes of sunlight most days of the week, taking care to protect the skin from sunburn as needed. In many parts of the world, doctors increasingly encourage patients to spend reasonable time outdoors in favorable weather. Not only does it provide physical benefits such as motivation to exercise, but it also supports emotional wellness by minimizing stress, decreasing symptoms of depression, and lifting the soul.
Disclosure: This article is purely informational and is not intended as a medical resource or substitute for professional advice. To understand how much time outdoors is right for you, and what steps are needed for sun protection, seek the advice of your healthcare provider.
