As the UK moves from an unusually warm summer into the approaching winter, growing concerns are emerging about how these extreme weather patterns might affect people's mental health. The summer saw five heatwaves between May and August, and with the potential for extreme weather linked to El Niño, experts are noting the psychological toll of these changes. This unusual climate shift has raised questions about how it might influence conditions like seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and climate anxiety, both of which are linked to changes in light and weather. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that typically begins in the fall and continues into winter, often linked to reduced sunlight. It affects brain chemicals like melatonin and serotonin, which regulate mood and sleep patterns. Dr. Caroline Hickman, a climate psychotherapist, explains that while the impact of heatwaves on SAD is still unclear, the unpredictability of the seasons is a growing concern. People are becoming more anxious about the changing climate and its effects on their mental health. Trevor Harley, an Emeritus Professor of Psychology, highlights that the transition around the autumn equinox can lead to "anticipatory anxiety" for some individuals. He notes that the combination of a hot summer and the expectation of extreme weather may heighten this anxiety, especially as the first signs of SAD begin to appear in November. Meanwhile, Roland Zahn, a professor of Mood Disorders and Cognitive Neuroscience, points out that weather changes can influence mood states, even for those without seasonal mood disorders. He adds that extreme weather is creating new patterns that make it harder to separate the effects of light and sleep from the decline in outdoor activities. Experts are calling for more attention to the mental health challenges brought on by increasingly extreme weather. Hester Parr, a Professor of Human Geography, stresses the need for the UK to prepare for the psychological effects of more dramatic seasonal changes. She notes that future winters may be wetter, warmer, and more unpredictable, requiring new strategies to support mental health. Meanwhile, Ella Kaur Maan, a registered nutritionist, suggests that maintaining healthy habits—like proper diet, sleep, and exercise—can help build resilience against these challenges. Dr. Louise Edgington, who supports people dealing with climate-related emotions, argues that the psychological impacts of climate change may be broader and more severe than SAD. She highlights the importance of acknowledging climate grief and anxiety, which are increasingly common. Rebecca Nestor, co-chair of the Climate Psychology Alliance, reports a rise in demand for climate-related support, including therapy and listening circles. She emphasizes the need to address climate distress with empathy and understanding, rather than dismissing it as irrational.