Here’s the translation to American English:
This weekend, Spain will undergo the traditional clock change to adjust to winter time, which means turning the clocks back one hour. Although at first glance this might seem like an opportunity for an extra hour of sleep, a recent study from the mental health platform Clearly indicates that the reduction in sunlight has a deeper impact on the emotional health of many people.
The study reveals that one in five patients in psychotherapy experiences symptoms of emotional burnout, also known as seasonal depression, which intensify with the arrival of autumn. Dr. Silvina Pérez Zambón, a clinical expert at Clearly, warns that this change is not just a simple time adjustment; it triggers an emotional downturn affecting thousands of people. Nearly 78% of surveyed patients report that the time change impacts their mental well-being.
Common symptoms identified include fatigue, irritability, and anxiety, with a particular emphasis on women aged 25 to 60. Dr. Pérez Zambón explains that the loss of natural light disrupts melatonin production, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep, while reducing serotonin levels, known as “the happiness hormone.” This decline directly affects mood and daily energy levels.
The analysis, which reviewed 500 psychological consultation records, also notes that symptoms such as apathy, lack of motivation, and social isolation are common during this time of year. These reactions are more intense in large cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, where the fast-paced lifestyle and limited sun exposure exacerbate emotional exhaustion.
To mitigate these effects, Dr. Pérez Zambón suggests various strategies, such as seeking natural light daily, engaging in outdoor physical activity, maintaining stable sleep routines, and strengthening social connections. Everyday activities like cooking comfort foods or taking walks in the sun can make a significant difference in emotional well-being.
The specialist emphasizes that seasonal depression is a physiological response to changes in light and temperature, not a sign of weakness or abnormality. Therefore, consciously adapting to these seasonal transitions is crucial for preserving mental health. Just as it is common to bundle up against the cold, taking care of the mind during shorter days and colder temperatures is equally essential.
Source: MiMub in Spanish