Weather and mood

Growing up in Bangladesh, I faced heat that was simply unbearable—temperatures that made you sweat just by blinking. However, moving to the USA showed me that the cold can be just as harsh, if not worse. I genuinely thought I was ready for winter, but no amount of preparation could brace me for those biting winds and snowstorms.

That's when I understood how significantly weather influences my mood. The relentless heat of Bangladesh, for example, left me feeling sluggish and irritable. It turns me into a lethargic mess, almost like a puddle of sweat on the floor. Conversely, when winter arrives in the United States, I experience a different kind of lethargy; the cold completely drains my energy. And it’s not just me. Cold and dark weather can lead to a drop in serotonin levels in the brain, making people more vulnerable to feelings of depression or anxiety. Then there's Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a genuine concern. The absence of sunlight during winter can disrupt your brain chemistry, making those gloomy days feel never-ending. Trust me, after moving from a place where it’s hot all year to one where the sun can vanish for weeks, I’ve experienced both extremes of the weather mood swing.

The silver lining is that no matter where you are, you can combat these effects. Whether it’s soaking up some extra light, staying active, or cozying up with a cup of hot chocolate—there are ways to cope with whatever weather comes your way. Just keep in mind, whether it’s the heat or the cold, it’s not just in your mind—your environment is genuinely impacting your mood!