Do autumn and winter affect your mood?

Hi everyone 💙

As the days become shorter and we move into autumn and winter, many people notice some change in their energy, sleep or mood.

But for someone living with bipolar disorder, seasonal changes can sometimes feel more significant.

Changes in daylight can influence our sleep-wake cycle and circadian rhythm, both of which are particularly important in bipolar disorder.

Some people report feeling more depressed or having less energy during autumn and winter, while others notice periods of increased energy or mood changes during spring and summer.

That doesn't mean everyone with bipolar disorder experiences a seasonal pattern.

But when it does happen, recognising it can sometimes help people notice early warning signs of a depressive, hypomanic or manic episode.

Perhaps you begin sleeping longer.

Maybe getting out of bed becomes more difficult.

Your motivation changes, you withdraw more, or you notice your mood starting to shift at roughly the same time each year.

Sometimes these patterns only become obvious after living with the condition for a long time.

💬 We'd really like to hear about your experience:

• Do you notice your bipolar symptoms changing with the seasons?
• Are autumn and winter more difficult for you, or do you struggle more during spring or summer?
• Have you noticed changes in sleep before your mood begins to shift?
• Does recognising a seasonal pattern help you prepare or speak to your healthcare team earlier?

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Everyone's experience of bipolar disorder is different, but comparing patterns may help others recognise changes they hadn't previously connected with the seasons.

Is there a particular time of year when you feel you need to pay closer attention to your mood?

With care,

Razar from the Carenity team 💖