Currently, we are transitioning from warmth to coolness, entering a phase where "yang diminishes and yin grows." This makes gastrointestinal disorders, colds, and cardiovascular diseases prone to recurrence, earning autumn the reputation as a "troubled season." Simultaneously, as nature begins to wither, the pineal gland in the human body, responding to reduced sunlight, increases secretion of "melatonin." This hormone can lead to low mood and heightened sensitivity.
Autumn Depression: Rooted in Brain "Disruption"
At the base of the human brain lies the pineal gland, which secretes melatonin. While this hormone promotes sleep, excessive secretion can also induce depression.The widening day-night temperature gap, reduced sunlight, and increasingly bleak scenery trigger chemical reactions in the brain. Medical examinations reveal disrupted melatonin secretion patterns. This leads to emotional responses such as insomnia, fatigue, physical discomfort, headaches, and loss of appetite.
Mild symptoms can often be managed through self-relaxation and stress relief without significantly impacting work. However, severe cases presenting headaches, abdominal pain, nausea, or even fainting require consultation at a mental health clinic or neurology department.
Mental Wellness: Five Strategies from Psychological Experts
Strategy One: Cultivate optimism and view natural seasonal changes with rational perspective to maintain inner peace.
Ancient wisdom advises "calming the spirit" for autumn wellness. Psychologists emphasize that optimism is crucial for preventing seasonal affective disorder.
Tip 2: Embrace reverse-seasonal dressing with pink autumn attire.
Wearing spring-inspired colors in autumn sends positive psychological cues. Pink outfits transform gloomy moods like a wardrobe refresh.
Tip 3: Gradually adjust your biological clock.
For those with insomnia, correcting sleep patterns requires gradual adjustment. Move your bedtime forward by half an hour each day, then another half hour after a few days, ultimately aiming to fall asleep before 10 or 11 PM.
Tip 4: Avoid year-end countdowns; focus on present tasks.
Yearly planning, year-end review. Psychologists advise against "counting down to the end of the year." When feeling low or unfocused, this only adds mental pressure and backfires. Only by going with the flow, adjusting your mindset, and actively tackling immediate tasks will "high efficiency" naturally follow.
Tip 5: Don't rush into dieting; eat to feel good.
If you experience autumn melancholy, now is not the time to diet. The pressure of weight loss can fuel depressive feelings.
Food directly influences mood. This season, indulge in foods that lift your spirits. If you crave cake, have some. If you enjoy a drink, savor it—just remember moderation.
Friendly reminder: The concept of "autumn melancholy" has been documented for millennia. It's a common emotional state, particularly affecting sensitive individuals. Typically, it doesn't indicate illness and shouldn't be stigmatized.