Here we will go over how to ease your depression caused by living in a rainy state. 

If you live in a rainy or cloudy location and feel symptoms of depression taking over your life, you’re not alone. These sad and confusing emotions are common for individuals living in places that don’t get as much sunlight. 

Although these emotions are common, there are many ways to improve your symptoms. Keep reading to find out how you can live a happier life even though it may be raining outside. 

Understanding the Correlation

In 2020, researchers conducted a study that monitored symptoms of depression and how they correlate with different types of weather. The study found that people were more likely to feel sad or depressed when there were clouds in the sky or rain was falling.

Another weather-related mood study conducted in 2018 found that rain can negatively impact your decision-making. Individuals participating in the study were less likely to vote for change during an election. These individuals also dined at restaurants and were less satisfied with the wait staff’s customer service than normal.

In these studies, it became clear that rainy days and cloudy skies affect a person’s mood negatively, but why? 

Throughout the year, the seasons change from bright, sunny skies to darker skies, cooler weather, and rainy days. During these seasonal changes, it is common to feel symptoms of seasonal depression. If you live in a rainy state, these symptoms of seasonal depression may linger year-round since there is often more poor weather than good. 

Seasonal depression is thought to occur because:

• There is a lack of sunlight. Sunlight encourages the release of happy chemicals called endorphins.
• You do not get to go outside as often, which can bring on extended bouts of boredom.
• Concerns about the climate and its impending change can make people anxious or sad. 
• You may be forced to live a more sedentary lifestyle which leads to depression because exercise also encourages endorphin release. 

When you live in an area that is constantly raining on your parade, it only makes sense that you will feel depressed. Luckily, there are some things you can do to combat these symptoms.

Try Light Therapy

Light therapy is used for a variety of mental conditions, including seasonal depression. This therapy is completed by exposing the patient to full spectrum bright white light for about thirty minutes. 

Light therapy helps depression because it simulates outdoor sunshine: boosting vitamin D, serotonin, and melatonin. Additionally, if you have your therapy sessions early in the morning, you can help regulate your circadian rhythm, also known as your internal clock. 

You can participate in Light therapy by purchasing a light box or lamp. Some insurance companies will cover your lightbox so contact them to find out. 

Utilize Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana can do wonders for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. 

Cannabis consumption can ease your symptoms because CBD has been found to boost serotonin and dopamine levels. Serotonin and dopamine are both neurotransmitters, meaning they are chemical messengers. Serotonin release can make you feel happy, calm, and focused. Dopamine release can help you feel motivated and productive. 

Depending on where you live, recreational consumption may be legal. If not, medical marijuana is more than likely available to those who qualify. Luckily, depression is an approved condition in most states, and you can easily apply for your card online at MarijuanaDoctors.com.

Exercise Inside

Participating in physical activity can help ease symptoms of depression. Since your state is rainy, it may be hard to find an opportunity to take a walk outside. Instead of waiting for a nice day to roll around, do some exercise indoors.

Physical activity improves your mood because it also releases feel-good endorphins. Additionally, exercise provides a distraction from negative thoughts, helps you gain confidence, and improves your physical health, which directly affects your psychological well-being. 

Some great indoor exercises include:

• Dancing
• Yoga
• Pilates
• Jump rope
• Stationary biking

Consider following a YouTube video for activities like yoga or buying some workout equipment like an elliptical. If you have a smart TV, you may have access to free workout channels so, you can get physical right in your living room.

However, no fancy equipment or special videos are necessary for getting a good workout in. Old-fashioned exercises like sit-ups, jumping jacks, squats, and push-ups will do the trick.

Conclusion

Feeling down, depressed, and anxious are all normal emotions that some individuals feel when living in a rainy state.

Luckily, you don’t have to simply accept your fate or move across the country to feel better.

You can combat your symptoms of depression by using light therapy, medical marijuana, and getting some physical activity.

Using these methods alone or simultaneously has proven to improve the mood of those struggling with seasonal depression.