When days grow shorter, temperatures drop, and leaves begin to fall — it means autumn, the messenger of winter, has arrived.

Autumn depression, as the name suggests, is the sudden change in mood that some people experience during the transition from summer to winter. Identified and named by the scientific community in the early 2000s, this condition shares similarities with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) but does not describe the exact same mental health issue.

Autumn depression affects some individuals by bringing increased anxiety and a lower mood during the fall months. Unlike other forms of anxiety or depression, autumn-related mood changes can recur every year during or after this season.

Many people do not realize how common autumn depression is — or that they might be experiencing it themselves. If this condition repeats every year, it may be considered more serious, and one should take proactive steps to prevent it.

Symptoms of Autumn Depression

Typical symptoms include:

• Loss of interest in daily activities
• Increased anxiety or nervousness
• Low mood or sudden mood swings
• Irritability
• Insomnia or fatigue
• Lethargy and weakness
• Energy deficiency or persistent tiredness

Why Do We Feel Depressed When Autumn Arrives?

• Reduced sunlight exposure leads to a decrease in serotonin levels — the hormone that regulates mood and sleep patterns. At the same time, the “sleep hormone” melatonin increases, which can trigger depressive feelings.
• Less sunlight can also cause vitamin D deficiency, which is directly linked to mood regulation.
• Behavioral changes also play a role: colder and darker weather means spending less time outdoors and being less physically active.

Who Is Most Affected by Autumn Depression?

There is no specific gender, age group, or profession more prone to it. However:

• Children and teenagers may experience stronger mood changes due to the end of summer holidays, increased academic pressure, and reduced opportunities for recreation.
• For some, emotional associations amplify symptoms. For example, if someone experienced a loss or traumatic event in autumn, the season itself can trigger painful memories.
• People who prefer summer over winter may subconsciously connect autumn with the approach of darker, more difficult months — reigniting negative emotions.

How to Prevent Autumn Depression

Regardless of the underlying cause, there are effective ways to cope with the emotional challenges of autumn:

• Spend more time outdoors to benefit from natural daylight.
• Wake up early to catch the morning sun.
• Exercise regularly — physical activity has proven therapeutic and calming effects.
• Take advantage of cool, pleasant autumn weather for outdoor activities such as long walks or cycling. You might also try a new sport or join a gym.
• Stay socially connected — remind yourself that you don’t have to face negative emotions alone. Surround yourself with supportive people.
• Spend time with someone you trust and enjoy being with — emotional connection is one of the best natural remedies.

Experts associate the tendency toward autumn depression with increased melatonin, decreased serotonin, and vitamin D deficiency.

Detaching yourself from negative thoughts, feelings, and memories associated with autumn can be an effective way to overcome this seasonal mood dip.

Irada Jalil, Bizimyol.info.