Some people can’t wait for the lovely colors, cooler weather, and comfortable sweaters of autumn. But for a minority of others, the transition from summer creates worry and fear. We often hear about the short, cold days of winter causing what is known as seasonal affective disorder (情感障碍). Yet according to Carrie Landin, a psychologist with the University of Colorado Health Integrative Medicine Center, a significant number of people actually experience autumn anxiety.
For some people, autumn anxiety is triggered by environmental factors similar to what happens in winter: Decreases in daylight set off chemical changes in the brain. “Less daylight leads to lower levels of neurotransmitters (神经传递素) that control our emotions.” says Landin, “As these neurotransmitters drop, the body responds by increasing levels of cortisol. which release in situations where we perceive threat.” The result can be increased anxiety, sleeping difficulty, and depression.
It’s not just increasing darkness that can cause these symptoms. For people who feel this way every year, some of the reaction is psychological — Landin calls it anticipatory anxiety (预想性焦虑). When we know there’s the potential for stress ahead, we tend to anticipate the problems, feeling anxious before they even happen. Landin suggests. “Identify the causes and make a plan to manage them before you feel overwhelming. For instance, if you’re concerned about family issues and holiday parties, decide in advance that it’s perfectly OK to say no to some of them.”
Remember: While autumn may throw you a few tricks, there are plenty of treats to be found too. Embrace the present moment!
8. What is the passage mainly about?
A.Seasonal change. | B.Emotional control. |
C.Anticipatory anxiety. | D.Autumn anxiety. |
9. What does the underlined word “triggered” mean in paragraph 2?
A.Generated. | B.Disturbed. | C.Eased. | D.Transformed. |
10. What does the author advise us to do in the end?
A.Hug happiness. | B.Enjoy autumn. | C.Play tricks. | D.Offer treats. |
11. Which section is this passage likely to appear in a magazine?
A.Health Care. | B.Fashion Circle. | C.Life Story. | D.Travel Journal. |