Seasonal apathy and atmospheric pressure: why there are not enough forces in November and how to restore them

Autumn apathy is a frequent and multifaceted phenomenon caused by a combination of light deficiency, climatic changes and social factors. For most people, simple measures are enough. However, if symptoms are severe or recurring, it is important to consult a doctor. How to cope with apathy and help the body — in the material of Izvestia.

What causes autumn apathy?

With the onset of late autumn, many people notice a decrease in energy, lethargy and a decline in mood. The combination of these factors is commonly referred to as autumn apathy. Experts point out that there may be different biological and social mechanisms behind this everyday formulation.

The key factor is the reduction of daylight hours: with a decrease in illumination, the duration and phase of circadian rhythms are disrupted, which leads to a shift in the work of the "internal clock" and a change in the production of sleep and wakefulness hormones, in particular melatonin and serotonin. As a result, people feel increased drowsiness, decreased motivation and interest in their usual activities.

In addition to the lack of light, autumn apathy is fueled by a combination of factors: lower temperatures, an increase in the number of cloudy days, changes in physical activity and social life, as well as nutrition — in the cold season, people often prefer high-calorie and heavy foods, which also affects well-being.

How to help the body in late autumn

Experts recommend an integrated approach: light therapy, sleep correction and physical activity, simple behavioral measures and, if necessary, medical care.

Light therapy remains one of the most effective methods for people with severe seasonal symptoms: special light panels imitating daylight are used in the morning for 20-30 minutes. This helps to stabilize the circadian rhythm and reduce the severity of drowsiness and depressed mood.

Sleep and wake patterns are another important element. Regularly getting up and going to bed at the same time, staying outside in daylight as much as possible, and monitoring screen time in the evening help synchronize the biological clock.

Physical activity, even short daily walks and moderate aerobic exercise, improves mood by releasing endorphins and improving blood circulation.

Vitamin D deficiency and certain trace elements are associated with mood deterioration, so in cases of severe deficiency, the doctor may recommend supplements after examination. Finally, social support, pleasant activity planning, and psychotherapeutic techniques (cognitive behavioral therapy) have proven effective in reducing seasonal symptoms. With a slight autumn blues, non-medicinal measures are sufficient.

How to distinguish seasonal apathy from depression and pressure problems

Temporary autumn apathy can be distinguished from a major depressive episode or from a somatic problem, such as blood pressure disorders, by a number of signs and the dynamics of symptoms.

The seasonal form of the disorder is characterized by a clear seasonal pattern. The deterioration begins in the same months of the year (usually in autumn and winter) and resolves steadily in spring or summer. Symptoms often include increased drowsiness, increased appetite, and cravings for carbohydrates.

At the same time, advanced major depression can occur at any time of the year, have more pronounced apathetic feelings, decreased self-esteem and suicidal thoughts, and also do not show seasonal remission. A medical assessment, including a conversation with a doctor, is necessary to make a diagnosis.

Problems with blood pressure are sometimes disguised as apathy: with hypotension, people may complain of weakness and fatigue, with hypertension— headaches and fatigue. The relationship between weather and blood pressure is complex: studies show that blood pressure reacts to changes in temperature and weather conditions, rising more often during the cold period and under certain weather patterns, as well as demonstrating variability in the elderly and in people with chronic heart and vascular diseases. Therefore, with severe fatigue or headaches, it makes sense to measure blood pressure and, in case of abnormalities, consult a therapist or cardiologist.

Pressure and weather dependence: who is at risk

The risk group for weather dependence and sensitivity to seasonal factors includes people with pre-existing chronic diseases and with an individual increased reaction to external factors.

First of all, these are patients with arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease and rhythm disorders, people with chronic pain conditions (arthritis, migraines), as well as those with a history of mood disorders and anxiety.

Regular blood pressure measurements and adherence to prescribed therapy are especially important for hypertensive patients during the cold season and during periods of sudden weather changes. People with migraines or arthritis are advised to discuss a plan of action with their doctor in advance if their condition worsens. In case of marked changes in well-being or blood pressure indicators, specialist advice and, if necessary, treatment adjustments are required.