Psychologists explained what the autumn blues are and how to distinguish them from laziness.

      28 October 2025 09:14 Society

      With the arrival of autumn, many people begin to feel tired and apathetic. This can be ordinary laziness, but sometimes it is seasonal affective disorder, known as the autumn blues. 360.ru asked experts how to tell ordinary fatigue from a serious condition, which self-help methods can help, and when to see a doctor.

      So what is the autumn blues? Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a real medical condition linked to mood changes depending on the time of year. It is not just a whim or laziness, as some believe.

      Symptoms of SAD include:

      - a persistent feeling of sadness;

      - loss of interest in usual activities;

      - changes in appetite;

      - sleep disturbances;

      - chronic fatigue;

      - decreased energy levels;

      - problems with concentration;

      - feelings of worthlessness;

      - negative thoughts about oneself.

      These symptoms differ from ordinary tiredness or depression in that they occur at a certain time of year and may disappear in spring or summer when the amount of sunlight increases.

      Some experts believe that the autumn blues are a myth people use to hide their laziness. However, other specialists say the condition is related to biological rhythms and daylight.

      In summer the body receives more sunlight, which increases activity and hormone production. In autumn the daylight hours shorten, which can lead to worsened mood and well-being.

      To help themselves with the autumn blues, psychologist Anton Korovin recommends taking vitamin D as a dietary supplement, engaging in physical activity, and maintaining a healthy diet.

      Clinical psychologist Ksenia Petrova advises reducing activity to give the body a chance to rest. For example, if a person exercised four times a week in summer, in autumn they can cut workouts to twice a week and replace them with swimming in a pool.

      Petrova also recommends playing music and dancing, brewing sea buckthorn tea, adding bright colors to the interior, and spending more time outdoors.

      But if a person has difficulty waking up after prolonged sleep, cannot feel rested even after increasing sleep duration, experiences excessive irritability or suicidal thoughts, they should consult a specialist.

      Korovin emphasizes that if symptoms persist for two weeks, this may be a sign of a serious condition requiring medical intervention.

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