As the monsoon sweeps across India with grey skies and continuous downpours, many people find their mood dipping along with the temperature. This emotional slump, often referred to as monsoon blues or rainy-day depression, is more than just a passing phase of gloom—it’s a real psychological response to seasonal weather changes. Fortunately, several simple remedies can help beat the monsoon blues and restore your energy and enthusiasm.
Understanding Monsoon Blues
Monsoon blues is a form of seasonal depression triggered by overcast skies, high humidity, reduced sunlight, and disrupted routines. Psychologists note that the lack of sunlight impacts serotonin levels—the chemical responsible for maintaining mood balance—and increases melatonin, which causes lethargy and excessive sleepiness. These changes may cause people to feel withdrawn, fatigued, or demotivated.
People affected by monsoon blues may experience:
- Low energy levels
- Irritability and mood swings
- Cravings for sweets or carbs
- Oversleeping or difficulty waking up
- A lack of interest in daily activities
These symptoms mirror those of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a more recognized condition in colder Western countries, but are increasingly being acknowledged in tropical regions like India during the rainy season.
Increase Natural Light and Brighten Up Your Space
One of the most effective monsoon blues remedies is increasing your exposure to natural light. Even on rainy days, try to keep your windows open to let in as much daylight as possible. Use light-colored curtains or reflective surfaces to brighten up your room. If natural sunlight is scarce, consider using light therapy lamps to mimic sunlight and stimulate serotonin production.
Stay Active Indoors to Boost Mood
Rain often disrupts outdoor exercise routines, but it’s essential to keep moving to combat rainy-day depression. Physical activity boosts endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers. Home workouts like yoga, dance, or online fitness sessions can help maintain mental balance. Even a few minutes of stretching or a brisk walk indoors can make a noticeable difference.
Eat Mood-Boosting Foods
What you eat can directly impact how you feel. To counter monsoon blues, nutritionists recommend foods rich in tryptophan, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium. These include:
• Bananas, oats, and dark chocolate
• Eggs, nuts, seeds, and oily fish
• Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger tea
Avoid processed and sugary foods, which may offer temporary relief but lead to energy crashes.
Keep a Regular Sleep-Wake Schedule
Maintaining a consistent routine helps regulate your internal clock, even during overcast monsoon days. Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily. Avoid napping for long hours and reduce screen time before sleeping. Good sleep hygiene plays a vital role in keeping monsoon depression at bay.
Stay Connected and Socially Engaged
One of the hidden effects of rainy weather is social withdrawal. Staying in touch with friends and family—even virtually—helps reduce feelings of isolation. Engage in indoor hobbies, play board games, read books, or simply chat with someone you trust. Talking about how you feel is one of the simplest yet most powerful monsoon blues remedies.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
If your symptoms persist or interfere with daily functioning, it may be time to seek professional help. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and light therapy have proven effective against seasonal depression, including monsoon-related mood issues. Psychiatrists may also recommend supplements like vitamin D or mild antidepressants in chronic cases, but only after proper evaluation.
