Depression and mood changes can be complex, and there can be several reasons why you might feel depressed during the day but happier at night. Here are a few possibilities:
Circadian Rhythm: Your body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, regulates various physiological processes, including mood. Some people may experience regular mood variations based on this rhythm.
Light Exposure: Exposure to sunlight helps our bodies produce serotonin, a hormone that boosts mood. If you're not getting enough sunlight during the day, it could affect your mood. Paradoxically, reduced exposure to light in the evening might actually help improve your mood due to a rise in melatonin, which can promote relaxation and stress relief.
Less Pressure and Expectations: Sometimes, people feel better at night because the demands and stresses of the day have ended. The night can offer a reprieve from social and work-related stressors.
Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome: This is a disorder where a person's sleep is delayed by two or more hours beyond the socially acceptable or conventional bedtime. This delay in falling asleep causes difficulty in waking up at the desired time. People with this disorder often describe themselves as "night owls" and say they function best or are most alert during the evening or night hours.
Diurnal Mood Variation or "Morning Depression": This is a symptom commonly associated with depression (especially major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern) where mood is worse in the morning but improves as the day goes on.
Diet and Exercise: What you eat and how much physical activity you get can also play a role in mood fluctuations.
If your mood swings are causing significant distress or if they're associated with thoughts of suicide, it's important to seek professional help immediately. Speaking with a mental health professional can provide further insight into what you're experiencing and help guide you toward appropriate treatment options. Always remember, it's okay to seek help and there are resources available to assist you.