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Published on: 7/21/2026

How does weather affect mood changes and what can be done about it?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Weather can significantly impact mood and emotional well-being. Some people experience sadness, fatigue, or low energy during specific weather conditions—such as overcast skies, cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, or prolonged rainy periods. This connection is often linked to reduced sunlight exposure, which can affect serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain. Recognizing how weather influences your mood is the first step toward managing these changes and improving overall well-being.

If you've noticed shifts in your mood tied to the weather—or you're experiencing persistent sadness, tiredness, or other symptoms you can't quite explain—it's worth taking a closer look. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you better understand what may be going on and guide you toward the right next steps. In just a few minutes, you can gain personalized insights based on your specific symptoms, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and whether to seek professional care.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Important Next Steps

Learn if weather changes affect your moodDiscover likely causes of weather-related mood swingsSee if weather changes mean depressionFind OTC options for mood supportFind a doctor for seasonal mood changesLearn home remedies for weather-related mood changesUnderstand if your mood needs care today

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Explanation

Weather can have a big impact on our mood. Some people feel happier when it is sunny, while others might feel sad when it is rainy or cloudy. Research shows that different people react differently to weather changes.

  • Individual Differences: According to a study, how weather affects mood can vary from person to person. Some might feel energetic on sunny days, while others might not notice much change.

  • Seasonal Changes: Another study found that some people feel sadder during certain seasons, like in winter when there is less sunlight. This is known as seasonal mood changes.

  • Coping Strategies: To help manage mood changes, it can be useful to spend time outside when the weather is nice, or find activities that make you happy indoors when it is not.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mood changes, it is important to talk to someone who can help. You can also take a free symptom checker assessment to better understand what you're experiencing and get personalized guidance on next steps.

(References)

  • Klimstra TA, Frijns T, Keijsers L, Denissen JJ, Raaijmakers QA, van Aken MA, et al. (2011). individual differences in how weather affects mood. Emotion (Washington, D.C.), 21842988.

  • Keller MC, Fredrickson BL, Ybarra O, Côté S, Johnson K, Mikels J, et al. (2005). A warm heart and a clear head. The contingent effects .... Psychological science, 16137259.

  • Kasper S, Wehr TA, Bartko JJ, Gaist PA, & Rosenthal NE. (1989). Epidemiological findings of seasonal changes in mood and .... Archives of general psychiatry, 2789026.

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