As the winter months start to roll in, some people may notice a dip in their mood. While this could be down to a number of things, for some people it may actually be a case of Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D).
S.A.D is a type of Depression that relates to changes in the seasons. For most people, symptoms begin around Autumn and last through the Winter. It can also occur less often in Spring and Summer.
For those affected in Autumn, it’s believed that the reduced amount of natural sunlight may be the main cause. Our bodies have a rhythm that keeps things functioning correctly. This is known as a circadian rhythm and the decreased hours of daylight can impact this rhythm, affecting things like the production of the ‘happy hormone’ serotonin.
Symptoms of S.A.D. are the same as the symptoms of Depression. They include some of the below:
- Persistent low mood
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Low energy or fatigue
- Insomnia or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating
- Decreased sex drive
If you believe you might be experiencing S.A.D. there are some things you can try to ease symptoms. Get as much natural sunlight each day as you can. We need a particular level of brightness to activate hormones in our body and indoor lighting is not sufficient. At work, try to create a bright and airy workspace, sitting near a window if possible. Exercise outdoors rather than inside, even for a 30-minute walk. Taking a vitamin D supplement, especially in the months of October to March, can be beneficial as we do not get enough sunlight to produce it during those months.
If none of the above lifestyle changes help, another option is Light Therapy. This involves sitting in front of a special lamp for about 30-45 minutes each day. It produces a very bright light that triggers the brain to produce hormones we may be lacking. There are many different options available but ensure that they are specifically for S.A.D. if purchasing one. S.A.D. can also be treated with antidepressants as it is a type of depression. If you are concerned about your symptoms please contact your GP or make an appointment with a Psychotherapist who will be able to assist.
Karen Bradley
