Feeling the Fall Funk? It Might Be More Than Just the Weather

"As fall begins, the days become shorter, and the nights longer, especially at higher latitudes. Fall changes our routines. People tend to return home earlier, resulting in fewer people on the streets. In many cities, evening traffic starts earlier, and the streets become empty at night. The start of school and universities in the fall causes much of the young population, who typically spend time outdoors, to leave the streets and recreational areas."

"In addition to daily changes by the beginning of fall, some bodily alterations may occur. These behaviors are linked to how reduced daylight can affect people's perception of available time, mood, sleep, and daily routines. Darkness causes winding down, rest, and indoor activities. People often feel as if they are "running out of light," which leads them to adjust their schedules to reduce evening outdoor and social activities."

"Your Body's Internal Clock: Winding Down for Winter Human biological rhythm is known as circadian rhythms. This biological clock has evolved to adapt to day-night cycles based on light and temperature and influences bodily systems, including hormone release, body temperature control, and metabolism regulation, impacting overall health. The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the hypothalamus acts as the main part of the circadia"

Shorter fall days and longer nights disrupt circadian rhythms, shifting sleep timing and increasing melatonin production that contributes to daytime fatigue. Reduced sunlight reduces vitamin D synthesis, lowering levels of this prohormone that helps regulate mood. Behavioral patterns change as people return home earlier, spend more time indoors, and favor activities like reading, gaming, and watching films. Darkness prompts winding down and schedule adjustments, reducing evening outdoor socializing. The suprachiasmatic nucleus in the hypothalamus coordinates circadian timing and influences hormones, body temperature, and metabolism. Light therapy and vitamin D supplementation can counteract seasonal mood and sleep changes.

Read at Psychology Today