How Weather Changes Affect Mental Health in Canada

Weather is often considered to be one of Canada’s most beautiful seasons. Unfortunately, due in part to Canada’s extreme weather, many Canadians notice their moods fluctuate frequently with weather changes. Despite this, many individuals do not realize that weather conditions may be responsible for these fluctuations.

This article provides a brief overview of how changes in the weather can influence an individual’s mental health and offer some suggestions to help maintain emotional balance during times of rapidly changing weather.

Why Do Weather Changes Affect My Mental Health?

Weather can have a direct or indirect effect on our mental health through:

• Exposure to sunlight
• Sleep patterns (i.e.: your sleep schedule)
• Hormonal balance (i.e.: hormones produced by the pituitary gland)
• Routine establishment
• Interaction with others

If any of the above factors change drastically or remain unchanged for an extended period of time, this will lead to mental health issues.

First, let’s examine long winters and reduced sunlight as one example of how weather can impact your mental health.

1. Long Winters & Reduced Sunlight

During winter, the amount of daylight is very short, resulting in insufficient sunlight exposure, and a corresponding decrease in serotonin levels (a chemical produced in your brain that regulates a sense of happiness and emotional stability).

Consequently, many people experience:

• Sadness/Low Mood (i.e.: "winter blues")
• Lethargy/Fatigue
• Lack of motivation
• Depression

A high proportion of Canadians experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

2. Extremely Cold Temperatures Lead to Increased Isolation

Effects of Cold Temperatures on Mental Health

Extreme cold temperatures lead people to stay indoors for longer periods of time. Consequently, many Canadians experience a decrease in:

• Physical Activity
• Social Interaction
• Exposure to Outdoor Environments

Increased Isolation Leads Toward Increased:

• Loneliness
• Anxiety
• Depression

Individuals who live alone or work from home experience the highest level of influence.

What is this about?

3. Sudden Weather Events and Mood Changes

Weather Changes in Canada

Canada experiences many rapid changes in weather. For example, one day may be warm and the next may be cold.

Some effects of rapid changes in the weather include:

• Brain Chemistry
• Blood Pressure Level
• Stress Hormone Levels

Some effects of rapid changes include:

• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Mental Fatigue

4. Changes in Mood Associated with Spring Weather and Emotional Changes in Mood

With longer days and warmer temperatures comes improved mood for most people. However, transitioning into spring can also bring about:

• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Sleep Problems

Your body and mind can become confused by sudden changes to your daily routine.

5. Mental Stress Associated with Heat

The Effects of Summer on Mental Health

The combination of hot, humid weather leads to higher levels of:

• Irritability
• Aggression
• Stress
• Difficulty Sleeping

When you are not sleeping well during heat, your level of anxiety and emotional exhaustion will continue to increase.

6. Rainy Days and Grey Skies

Rainy weather and grey skies will cause:

• Low Energy
• Sadness
• Difficulty Focusing

The longer it is cloudy and rainy outside, the less motivated and productive we tend to be.

7. Anxiety Associated with Extreme Weather Events

Floods, wildfires, storms, power loss: All create:

• Fear and Uncertainty
• Stress and Panic
• Long-Term Anxiety

Climate-related emotional stress is becoming more prevalent throughout Canada.

How You Can Manage Your Mental Health During Seasonal Changes

1. Get Outside

• Go out in the sunlight
• Spend time by open windows
• Use light boxes during the winter

2. Stick to a Schedule

Try to follow the same regular schedule

• Regular waking and sleeping hours
• Regular meals
• Plan out your activities

3. Keep Exercising Year Round

You can exercise even in the winter months

• Join a local gym
• Take up an indoor fitness class
• Get some exercise outside

This can help with your mood and reduce stress.

4. Stay in Contact with Others

• Call or visit friends or family
• Join a group (online forums, community groups, etc.)
• Avoid spending too much time alone

Staying connected with others is essential to positive mental health.

5. Take Time for Yourself to Relieve Stress

Some ways to relieve stress are:

• Deep breathing
• Meditation (meditative yoga, tai chi, etc.)
• Writing
• Listening to soothing music

6. Eat Healthy and Drink Plenty of Water

Regularly eating a well-balanced diet can help stabilize your emotional well-being. Make sure to eat:

• Fresh fruit and vegetables
• Vitamin D sources
• Drink enough water

7. Find Professional Help if Needed

If the seasonal changes are affecting your mood and they last longer than two to three weeks, look into:

• Counseling
• Online counseling service (Canada)
• Speak to your doctor

Changes in weather are a part of Canadian life but are often understated when it comes to their effect on your mental health. These changes have a genuine impact on your mental health, but you can take steps to reduce their potential to do harm.