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Snowflakes, mittens and reindeer - all these signify it's winter time, but beyond the aesthetic scenes, this season triggers profound psychological shifts worldwide. As temperatures drop and days shorten across the Northern Hemisphere, a significant body of research in psychology indicates a notable transformation in people's behaviors, emotions and cognitive patterns.

Mood changes

During this season, around 5% of Americans experience Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD, marked by feelings of hopelessness, decreased motivation and lethargy. Reduced sunlight exposure diminishes serotonin levels, contributing to this condition. Even those not clinically diagnosed with SAD often experience heightened anxiety and depression, affecting over 40% of Americans.

Hibernation-like responses

Winter's onset often coincides with a noticeable increase in weight among many individuals. This phenomenon might trace its roots back to ancestral adaptations for coping with limited food supplies during harsher seasons. Our biological responses during this time might mimic a form of hibernation, strategically conserving energy to endure the colder months.

The urge to consume more food and reduce physical activity aligns with a historical need to survive periods of scarcity. Scientific studies suggest that our ancestors' reactions to colder, harsher environments were advantageous. These responses, coded into our genes over time, allow for increased food intake and reduced activity levels as a means of conserving energy.

Interactions

Winter coincides with increased sexual activity, theorized due to various factors such as hormonal changes, holiday intimacy and historical conditions resulting in more births during summer. Surprisingly, cognitive focus also appears sharper in winter, possibly tied to fluctuations in serotonin and dopamine levels. Furthermore, the holiday season encourages generosity, elevating charitable giving and tipping rates.