Why You Cry More During Monsoon (It's Not Just the Rain), Can Weather Trigger Anxiety?

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Monsoon is romanticised for chai, pakoras, and the comforting sound of rain. But not everyone finds this season joyful. For many, the arrival of dark skies and constant drizzle brings an unexplainable wave of sadness, sluggishness, and even anxiety.

If you've found yourself crying more, struggling to concentrate, or just feeling "off" during the monsoon, you're not alone. And no-it's not all in your head. Weather can genuinely affect your mental health. Here's how!

Photo Credit: AI Generated Image

1. The Lack Of Sunlight Is Affecting Your Brain Chemistry

One of the biggest mood disruptors during monsoon is reduced exposure to natural sunlight. When sunlight dips, so does serotonin-the hormone that keeps you calm and happy. This is why you might feel more irritable, sluggish, or sad even on days when nothing is particularly wrong.

This condition closely mirrors Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and while it's more common in colder regions, it can absolutely happen in India too during a dark and rainy spell.

2. Your Sleep Cycle Is Out Of Whack

Monsoon clouds confuse your body's internal clock. You wake up feeling tired even after a full night's rest. Why? Because the absence of sunlight affects your circadian rhythm, making it harder to distinguish day from night.

Poor sleep or oversleeping can lead to grogginess and poor emotional regulation. Basically, your brain doesn't know what time it is, and that confusion trickles into your mood.

3. Humidity Plays A Silent Role In Triggering Anxiety

High humidity and changes in atmospheric pressure affect your body in subtle but powerful ways. People with anxiety often report a spike in restlessness and panic symptoms during monsoon.

That clammy, sticky feeling makes it harder to breathe freely, move easily, or feel fresh. If your mind feels foggy and your chest feels heavy, humidity might be a hidden contributor.

4. Being Cooped Up Indoors Can Feel Like Isolation

The rain often limits movement and plans. You avoid traffic, cancel brunches, and work from home more often. While that may sound peaceful at first, it can start to feel like emotional isolation, especially for extroverts or those who rely on routine social interaction for emotional balance.

The lack of outdoor activity and fresh air increases feelings of stagnancy and depression.

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5. You Crave More Junk Food, Which Triggers Mood Crashes

Let's be honest-rainy weather makes us crave pakoras, samosas, and endless cups of sweet chai. Comfort food is great for nostalgia, but these carb-heavy, greasy meals can spike your blood sugar and send you crashing just as quickly.

This up-and-down rollercoaster affects your energy and mood, often leading to irritability or mental fatigue without warning.

6. Emotional Sensitivity Peaks With the Weather

Monsoon has a way of pulling you into your own thoughts. The slow pace, reflective vibe, and sensory overload from thunder and rain can push emotionally sensitive people into overthinking or even grief recall.

If you've had past trauma or heartbreak, this season may subconsciously resurface old memories and amplify emotional vulnerability.

7. Vitamin D Deficiency Adds Fuel To The Fire

Less sun equals less vitamin D. This essential vitamin not only strengthens bones but also impacts your mood, immune function, and brain performance.

A deficiency in vitamin D is linked to depression, fatigue, and even muscle pain-all of which feel worse when you're already emotionally drained by the weather.

What You Can Do To Feel Better

Brighten your indoor spaces with artificial lighting or light therapy lamps. Step outside during daylight hours whenever it's not raining heavily. Exercise indoors with yoga or dancing to keep your body active.

Opt for foods rich in vitamin D like eggs, fish, and fortified cereals. And most importantly, talk about your emotions-whether with a friend or therapist.

Don't ignore persistent sadness or anxiety just because the skies are cloudy. Your emotions are valid, and there are ways to protect your mental health-even on the rainiest days.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.