Warm weather, UV Index of 2, going out with friends, wearing sunscreen, no sweatshirts or hoodies, summer sports starting, hot nights, staying out late, trips to the beach, and boosts of serotonin: All the benefits of warmer weather. This is something we’ve all been waiting for these past 3 months of coldness and rain. But does it really make us happier?

Statistics show that 5% of the population experience SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) which lasts about 40% of the year, the reason for this is a Biochemical imbalance with the brain being prompted to less daylight hours and less sunlight in the winter time. Many people overcome this when it starts getting warmer and hotter, people start getting happier and more motivated.

Most people even agree to the idea of it being hard to be happier without sunlight.  But the question remains: Why? According to The Telegraph, they quote that “this is down to the link between sunlight and our serotonin levels – the hormone that makes us feel happy. It’s also why people are more likely to develop Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) when the shorter autumn days arrive and we creep into winter with fewer daylight hours.” 

An Australian study shows us that people tend to be in a better mood than on cloudy days. Even people in tanning beds experience a feeling of euphoric feelings. So to answer the question: Can warmer weather bring happiness? Yes, it can.