“Faith gives rest and joy; unbelief, troubles and wounds.” St. John of Kronstadt
Pray all are well. You can definitely still feel the chill in the air as the seasons change. With these climate and seasonal changes many are affected by seasonal affective disorder(SAD) a type of mood disorder,
This is another important emotional issue, particularly during the winter season when we don’t get as much sun. Depression is often attributed to the weather and climate changes because of shortened days of winter and less sunlight. Making you feel moody and sapping your energy. Although the specific causes are unknown some factors can play a factor such as the reduced level of sunlight which might affect your circadian rhythm or biological clock. Your serotonin levels drop and that affects moods and that again is related to reduced sunlight.
Also, melatonin levels drop with the changes of seasons which can disrupt the balance of the melatonin levels. This can affect sleep patterns and ones mood as well. Treatment can include light therapy, learning to manage stress and building healthy behaviors such as improving sleep patterns and physical activity. Please remember you are not alone in any difficulties. We have a parish family and our beloved Priests to help us through these difficulties whether spiritual, psychological, or physical through prayer and advice. Pray you have good strength and joy as we journey towards our Lord’s Resurrection.
In Christ,
Elizabeth Ashton, RN
