Weather and Its Impact on Human Mental Health

Weather and Its Impact on Human Mental Health

Weather and its impact on human mental health is a significant topic that scientists have explored over the years. Weather can sometimes influence emotions and moods depending on each person’s preferred climate.

The main categories of people include summer lovers—those whose moods improve in warm, sunny weather—and on the opposite end, those who dislike summer and feel worse during it. Another group dislikes rain, while the final group is indifferent to weather and remains emotionally unaffected by any weather condition.

Regardless of these individual differences, weather affects mental health in several key ways. It’s important to note that these effects usually occur when a person goes outside and is directly exposed to the weather. Simply looking out the window typically won’t have a major psychological impact. The main psychological effects of weather on people include:

Mood

Mood reflects how weather affects mental health. Some people’s moods rise or fall depending on the following weather conditions:

1. Low temperatures (below 50°F / 10°C).
2. High temperatures (above 70°F / 21°C).
3. Moderate temperatures (typically between 50°F / 10°C and 70°F / 21°C).

Energy

A person’s energy levels are strongly affected by weather. In cold weather, the body tends to enter a state of calm and stability. During summer, as temperatures rise, human energy is stimulated, making people feel more active and lively.

However, this applies mostly to temperatures below 70°F. Once temperatures exceed that, people often begin to feel sluggish, fatigued, and an urgent need to escape the heat.

In addition to temperature, light plays a major role in regulating our biological clock. Light signals the brain to wake and be active, while darkness signals rest. Thus, longer daylight hours increase energy, while shorter days with more clouds make people feel sluggish, as if it’s time to rest.

Stress

Sometimes people feel stressed due to a drop in atmospheric pressure, which can trigger waves of anxiety and tension throughout the body. This may even result in physical pain due to stress. Additionally, high temperatures can cause psychological stress. Studies show that the hottest months of the year correlate with increased stress, emotional outbursts, and aggression.

The Ability to Think Clearly and Make Sound Decisions

Warm, sunny weather enhances cognitive functioning in several ways:

1. Improved memory.
2. A greater sense of openness to new information.
3. Reduced distractibility, especially in those with ADHD.
4. People become more rational and forgiving when handling financial risks.