June usually marks the start of al fresco dining, pub garden and picnic season but umbrellas have been the accessory of choice for many people across the UK over the last few drizzly days. The constantly changing weather we have experienced so far this summer has made layering essential and people’s moods often tend to mirror the grey, gloomy skies. Many theories have been put forward about how the weather impacts our mood, energy and mental functioning.
Mental health experts have unpacked the biology behind the ‘rainy day blues’, offering helpful advice about how we can rediscover that summertime energy during the recurring showers that are dominating the weather. How does the weather affect our mood? Antonio Kalentzis, psychologist and The British Psychological Society committee member, explained that the weather significantly impacts our mood and mental health through several biological mechanisms such as serotonin production and our sleep/wake cycle. Kalentzis said: “Sunshine boosts serotonin levels which improves our mood and promotes feelings of wellbeing.
“Conversely, cloudy or rainy days can lead to reduced serotonin production, causing feelings of sadness or lethargy. “Additionally, exposure to natural light regulates our circadian rhythms, influences our sleep patterns and our overall mental health.” Meanwhile, London-based psychologist Barbara Santini expressed the importance of vitamin D on our mood and brain functioning.
Santini said: “The role of.
