As the Days Shorten: Understanding Seasonal Shifts in Mood and Energy

As the days grow shorter and the light changes, many people notice shifts in mood, focus, or motivation. For some, it feels like slowing down. For others, it can bring irritability, fatigue, or sadness that seems to come from nowhere.

These changes are common and are often linked to how light, sleep, and daily routines affect our internal rhythms. When daylight decreases, it can influence mood-regulating hormones and energy levels, especially for those who are already managing stress or depression.

Recognizing the Pattern

Seasonal changes can sneak up gradually. You might notice it becomes harder to get going in the morning or that your usual strategies for focus and calm are less effective. For some people, these shifts begin in late fall and continue through winter, a pattern known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Support That Adapts With the Season

Online psychiatry makes it possible to recognize and address these patterns early. Through therapy and medication management, Dr. Mark Chofla helps patients understand how seasonal changes affect mood and energy, while creating strategies to maintain balance.

One patient shared, “A very detailed and supportive doctor, who has helped me greatly by making slight (and effective) adjustments to my medications.” (Yelp Patient Review).

Those small, timely changes can make a real difference when the seasons shift.

Care That Fits Your Schedule

Whether you live in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Alaska, New York, or Florida, Empathy Therapy offers fully online care that moves with you through each season. Consistent appointments can help you stay grounded and supported, no matter what time of year it is.

If you have been feeling the effects of shorter days or noticing a dip in motivation, now may be the right time to reach out.

Learn more or schedule an appointment at www.empathytherapy.com.

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