SHASTA COUNTY, Calif. — The fog we’re experiencing in the Northstate can have wide-ranging impacts.
Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) Community Education Specialist Makaylah Fazzari said the fog in the Northstate won’t directly impact mental health. However, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is linked to fewer daylight hours.
When the fog hits, it reduces daylight hours even more than normal in the winter season, which Fazzari said can have negative impacts.
Fog in Redding, Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025. (KRCR)
“If you have Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, some of the common symptoms are going to be fatigue, oversleeping, you may not enjoy the activities that you normally enjoy as much,” Fazzari said. “It can involve overeating, weight gain, craving carbs, specifically, and it can also include withdrawing from social situations and feeling like you need to hibernate.”
When it is sunny, you can enjoy the daylight outside, along with making sure you’re connected with loved ones and trying to find support if you’re affected by this change in the season.
If someone notices severe symptoms, Fazarri recommends talking with a medical or mental health professional.
A woman in distress. Shasta County HHSA Community Education Specialist Makaylah Fazzari told the Northstate’s News the fog in the Northstate won’t directly impact mental health, but it can limit daylight hours, contributing to{ }Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).{ } (Photo: AdobeStock)
She said, if you experience many of these symptoms for more than two years in a row, that’s the time to consider seeking out a provider.
You can learn more about SAD on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website here.
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