Monsoon mood swings: Hyderabad doctors advise on coping with mental impact of rainy days

Hyderabad: As monsoon clouds roll in, so do shifts in our mood and mental health.

For many, the rains bring calm, nostalgia and a sense of renewal. For others, the same overcast skies trigger fatigue, low energy or even anxiety. While the effects of weather on mental well-being are not new, the Indian monsoon—with its long duration and intensity—has a unique impact worth understanding.

The science of seasonal shifts

Dr Manmita Joshi, a clinical psychologist, speaking to NewsMeter, explained that seasonal mood changes are not imagined. “The reduction in sunlight during the monsoon can disrupt our body’s internal clock or circadian rhythm. This affects sleep, serotonin production and even appetite,” she said.

Reduced sunlight has been linked to a drop in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood. Simultaneously, melatonin levels may increase, causing lethargy and a disrupted sleep-wake cycle. While this is commonly seen in colder countries as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), similar symptoms occur during India’s long monsoon season, especially in cities where grey skies persist for weeks.

Emotional nostalgia and monsoon memory

While some people feel low during the rains, others report feeling more introspective, nostalgic or creatively inspired.

“Rain has a strong sensory link to memory. The smell of wet earth, the sound of thunder, even the way rain falls on your window—all these are cues that activate emotional recall,” said Dr S Venkat, a neuropsychiatrist in Hyderabad. “For people with unresolved grief or past trauma, the monsoon can become a subtle trigger.”

At the same time, for many Indians, the monsoon is tied to childhood memories—hot chai, school holidays or sitting by the window with a book. The emotional impact of the season, therefore, swings both ways depending on one’s mental landscape.

Loneliness in the urban monsoon

Isolation is another concern.

In cities, rain often keeps people indoors for extended periods. “We’ve observed that during long rainy spells, our clients report higher feelings of loneliness,” said Smita Paul, a practising counsellor who runs online group therapy sessions. “This is especially true for people living alone or working from home.”

The pandemic-normalised lifestyle has added to the problem. With limited social interactions and fewer outdoor breaks, mental health dips often go unnoticed until they become more serious.

Productivity and mood

Mood shifts during the monsoon also impact motivation and productivity. A study by the Indian Journal of Psychiatry in 2023 found that 42 per cent of urban professionals reported a drop in focus and motivation during rainy months.

“Rain can make daily tasks seem harder—commuting is a hassle, laundry takes longer and daylight hours shrink,” said workplace psychologist Riddhi Sharma. “All this can contribute to mental fatigue.”

However, she added that some people find the rain meditative. “It depends on how one structures their environment. Simple things like warm lighting indoors, a consistent routine and regular check-ins with others can offset the gloom.”

Coping with monsoon mood swings

Mental health professionals recommend small but consistent habits to deal with the emotional weight of the monsoon:

Maximise daylight: Keep curtains open during the day and step out for even a brief walk when it’s not raining.

Routine helps: A consistent sleep schedule, daily exercise and structured work hours can stabilise mood.

Stay connected: Regular calls or check-ins with friends and family can reduce feelings of isolation.

Seek help early: If low moods persist beyond two weeks, it may be helpful to consult a therapist.

The Indian monsoon is a powerful seasonal experience—visceral, immersive and deeply emotional. Understanding its impact on mental health is essential, especially in cities where changing lifestyles may be amplifying its effects. As Dr Joshi puts it, “We need to stop romanticising or villainising the rain, and start listening to what it’s telling us about ourselves.”