Even in Brisbane, Winter Can Affect Your Mood – Here’s Why

Senior Clinical Psychologist Henry Close offers some tips to keep the winter blues at bay.

Feeling the winter blues as days get shorter and the temperature drops? Metro North Senior Clinical Psychologist Henry Close explains what’s behind seasonal mood dips and how to manage them.

While Brisbane is spared the harsh winters seen elsewhere, the shift to shorter days and reduced sunlight can still affect how we feel.

“Two key chemicals that influence our mood and motivation are vitamin D and melatonin,” Henry says.

“Vitamin D, which we primarily absorb from sunlight, helps activate the production of serotonin, often called the happy hormone. When daylight hours decrease in winter, we naturally get less sunlight, and that can lead to a drop in mood.”

“Melatonin is the opposite. It’s produced when it’s dark and makes us feel sleepy and sluggish. So, with more darkness in winter, it’s common to feel less motivated to move or stay active.”

For most people with otherwise good mental health, these seasonal changes are mild. But Henry says it’s important to recognise when a normal dip becomes something more.

“For many people, winter mood changes show up as being less motivated to get up early or choosing to stay home instead of going out,” he says.

“A good guide is how much the change is affecting the rest of your life.

“If you’re just skipping the occasional early morning workout for more doona time, that’s harmless. But if your urge to ‘hibernate’ starts impacting your work, relationships or daily functioning, it may be time to seek support.”

So, what can you do to keep the winter blues at bay?

“Access to daylight is key,” Henry says.

“We’re lucky to often have beautiful winter days in Brisbane. Try to get outdoors, even if it’s just for a short lunchtime walk.

“Social connection is also vital for mood. Keep in touch with friends and family and try to maintain some of your social plans, even when it’s cold outside.

“Finally, movement is good for mental health at any time. Where possible, keep to your usual levels of activity during the cooler months.”

If you are concerned that you’re experiencing more than some winter blues. Reach out for support. A chat with your GP is a great place to start.