COLUMBIA, S.C. — Benedict College psychology professor Tanya Bolton, says cloudy and overcast days can cause feelings of sadness and un-motivation in many people. “We take all of our emotional cues, or most of our emotion cues, from the environment,” says Bolton.
She explains how the absence of sunlight can affect the levels of serotonin in our brains, which is an important neurotransmitter that regulates our mood. When these levels are disrupted, it can cause feelings of sadness and other mood disorders.
“You tend to be a little groggy still and just not as excited and energetic,” Bolton said.
During the Spring, the jet stream moves northward, creating changes in the air pressure, which causes more cumulus clouds to form. That means, more rain showers are common this time of the year.
Bolton encourages taking steps to manage your mental health if the weather affects you.
“If you can manage this mind and thoughts of ours, you can win any battle that you’re faced with. Because I’m thinking positively, my brain is creating those hormones that I need. Now, my body is feeling better because my body is doing what my mind told it to do. It’s responding to positivity. It starts with a thought,” Bolton said.
Even on a cloudy day, being outdoors and getting some fresh air can provide a boost to your mood and energy levels.