‘Tis the season for colors. Beginning in the higher latitudes, the leaves are changing in earnest.

As the days shorten, the foliage produces less chlorophyll, allowing more colorful compounds like carotenoids to shine through in bright yellows, oranges, and reds.

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This transformation is so dramatic that satellites can pick up wide swaths of color from space. You can even visit the NASA website to see images of the fall colors arriving.

The National Forest Service also keeps an updated map of all the best states to go leaf peeping.

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But the seasonal change also brings seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. About 10 to 20 percent of people in the United States experience SAD during the fall and winter months, according to the American Family Physician website and research. In fact, the farther north you live, the more likely you’ll get it. It’s seven times more common in Washington state than in Florida.

Related: Smartphones Know Your Moods

Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that’s related to the decreasing amount of daily light as the season progresses. But you don’t have to get down in your “winter blues” funk.

Color psychology could help you to change your mood.

And it works both ways.

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New research from the University of Rochester shows that feelings of sadness may go so far as to change the way we see colors on the blue-yellow spectrum.

Related: Color Me Beautiful

Color psychology can work in your favor, too. Mary Anne Wahle, a wardrobe, style, and image consultant, offered some practical tips on how to use color to manipulate your mood and bring you an extra dose of cheer in the upcoming season.

Blue
“Darker blue is a loyal, stable, trustworthy color,” Wahle said.

She cites the many professionals who have dark blue uniforms — police workers, military, and financial planners who wear dark blue suits or skirts.

Seeing blue can actually help convey calm. Some research has shown that people are more productive in blue rooms because they feel calm and focused. So if you’re feeling unusually stressed at work, or just stressed in general, try adding some blue — either navy or light — to your outfit.

Yellow
This is the color we associate with sunlight and summertime.

“You can’t help but be affected by something like a really cheerful canary yellow,” Wahle said.

Some studies show that seeing yellow can help the brain release serotonin, a chemical neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness. Yellow could also aid in mental clarity and creativity.

If you’re stuck in a slump or blocked on a project at work, sneak some yellow into your wardrobe. Something like a simple yellow tie or scarf will do.

Green
Depending on where you live, you may not see much green during these winter months. Green is the color of nature — plants, trees, grass — and it can help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

Green is the color of nature — plants, trees, grass — and it can help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

It’s also associated with feelings of generosity and abundance. If you’re starting to feel run down, try bringing some green into your space to boost your sense of renewal. Decorate your desk with plants, start a home herb garden, or just stick with the green items in your closet.

Red
This is the first color you see when you walk into a room. It’s used in warning signs, and often associated with negative emotions like anger. But it also brings to mind romance, power, courage, and ambition.

As far as colors go, red is pure stimulant. In China, red is the color of good luck and is used extensively at weddings. Try red gloves, a red scarf, or red nails for a shot of energy.

Black
Yes, black counts as a color, but you have to use it carefully.

“Black can sometimes make people feel glum,” Wahle said.

On the other hand, she said, “Black is universally accepted as a chic, sophisticated color.”

If you’re wearing black, wear it for the right reasons. Wear it when you want to feel powerful or mysterious or a little avant-garde. Don’t wear it to hide feelings of depression. Use it as a statement of power.

Brown
What do you do if everything in your life is feeling uncertain and up in the air? Try wearing some brown. This is the color of soil — it’s natural, organic, stable. It’s also a practical and versatile color.

If you’re feeling the need to be more flexible and adjustable to your circumstances, try wearing brown. But don’t get carried away. Too much brown will get boring.

This season, keep an eye out for colors. And when all the fall colors are gone, try adding some color to your wardrobe or decorating for an attitude boost. It could make all the difference.

“We really connect with and gravitate toward our favorite colors,” Wahle said. In her experience, people are happier when they become conscious users of colors in their lives.