As temperatures plummet nationwide, many Australians find themselves repeatedly lamenting, “It’s so cold, I can’t stand winter!” Approximately 1 in 300 Australians are diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that emerges during the winter months and is marked by feelings of hopelessness, reduced motivation, and lethargy. This condition is even more prevalent in northern countries where shorter days and longer nights exacerbate the lack of sunlight, disrupting serotonin production and the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to mood changes. While not everyone meets the clinical criteria for SAD, many still struggle with the season’s challenges.
The Effects of Winter
A 2015 study involving 1,000 Australians revealed significant winter impacts. Over half of the participants reported difficulty waking up and a tendency to oversleep. Forty-three percent mentioned overeating, especially cravings for carbohydrates and sweets, resulting in unwanted weight gain. Social activities decreased for 42% of respondents, contributing to lower enjoyment and energy levels during these months. Additionally, 1 in 3 people reported feeling down and depressed, while 1 in 4 experienced irritability and pessimism.
The cold weather also affects work life, with 1 in 3 individuals reporting reduced motivation, increased sickness-related absences, and diminished social interaction with colleagues.
