Seasonal Affective Disorder Hits New Jersey Hard
Now that summer is officially in progress, the hot temperatures and thunderstorms are upon us in New Jersey every day. I, like many people sometimes feel down or almost depressed when it rains. This is a prime example of Seasonal Affective Disorder. I wonder why or how your brain and body are affected by the weather. Just because it’s sunny we get happy and if it’s gloomy, so are we.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
According to new research, Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is becoming a more prominent issue due to the effects of global warming and climate change.
As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events occur, these fluctuations in weather can intensify feelings of discomfort, stress, and anxiety during the summer months.
Research by MattressNextDay analyzed various weather factors including temperature, pollen, humidity, and rainfall levels to reveal the locations that are at risk the most of suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder.
New Jersey Ranks 4th in the Nation for Seasonal Affective Disorder
Similar to Florida at number one on the list, we are statistically more likely to suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder in the summer months. New Jersey’s total index score of eighty-three puts us in the top five.
Our rainfall between May and September averages 4.27 inches and we have high average temperatures in the summer. The higher humidity in the afternoon is also a contributing factor.
This helps to cause us to experience feelings of anxiety and stress, the study shows that this is becoming increasingly common among us and our neighbors.
Coming in at second place with a total index score of eighty-six point six is Louisiana. They’ve got all those swamps, so the heat and humidity are unbearable.
Their average temperatures were tied with Texas as the highest in the country. The third-highest rainfall in the summer is also a contributing factor.
Rounding out the top three is North Carolina which has moderate winters and extremely hot summers. North Carolina is just ahead of New Jersey with the likelihood of developing Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Virginia closes out the top five.
The study factored in average temperature, humidity in both the morning and afternoon, average rainfall, and pollen levels.
What We Can Do About Seasonal Affective Disorder
One thing that is recommended to lessen the effects is having a steady bedtime routine and sleep schedule. We should also try to limit bright lights at night, use relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, and limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, especially at night.
It is also suggested that you seek support from a mental health professional if your Seasonal Affective Disorder symptoms are severe.