The Science Behind: Broken Heart Season
Weather affects mood through your brain chemistry. Here's how.
The light-serotonin connection:
Sunlight triggers serotonin production in the brain. Serotonin is often called the "happiness chemical"—it regulates mood, sleep, appetite.
Less light = less serotonin = lower mood.
This isn't metaphor. It's neuroscience.
The melatonin factor:
Darkness (or gray skies) increases melatonin, the sleep hormone. Too much melatonin = daytime drowsiness, lethargy, desire to hibernate.
Rainy season's constant low light keeps melatonin higher than it should be during the day.
Evidence-based helps:
Light therapy: Bright light boxes (10,000 lux) for 20-30 minutes in morning can help
Vitamin D: Supplementation may help if levels are low from reduced sunlight
Exercise: Physical movement boosts serotonin even without light
Morning light exposure: Get outside when you can, even if cloudy
Your rainy season sadness isn't weakness. It's chemistry responding to environment. You can work with it.
Grief Compass Journal supports evidence-based seasonal care.