With the clocks going back last week, we’re officially heading into the darker winter months. For many, this transition is manageable, but for some, the seasonal shift can lead to a noticeable drop in mood and energy levels.
It’s common to be affected by changing seasons and weather, or to have times of year when you feel more or less comfortable. But if your feelings are interfering with your everyday life, it could be a sign that you have depression. And if they keep coming back at the same time of year, doctors might call this Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common, though often misunderstood, form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. Here, we’ll explore what SAD is, why it happens, and share tips on managing its symptoms.
What causes SAD?
The exact causes of SAD aren’t clear – a range of different factors are likely to contribute and these can vary a lot between different people.
Research suggests that the causes are similar to causes of depression, but there are also factors which can lead specifically to SAD.
Other research suggests that the following may cause SAD:
- Effects of light
- Disrupted body clocks
- Problems with melatonin and serotonin levels
- Weather and temperatures
What are the symptoms of SAD?
If you have SAD, you might experience some of the signs and symptoms below. But it’s different for different people, and can vary season to season, so you might also have other kinds of feelings which aren’t listed here:
- Lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Not wanting to see people
- Feeling sad, low, tearful, guilty or hopeless
- Feeling anxious, angry and agitated
- Being more prone to physical health problems, such as colds, infections or other illnesses
- Sleeping too much, or difficulty waking up (common with SAD in winter)
- Sleeping too little, or waking up a lot (common with SAD in summer)
- Changes in your appetite, for example feeling hungrier or not wanting to eat
- Losing interest in sex or physical contact
- Suicidal feelings
- Other symptoms of depression
If you also have other mental health problems, you might find that things get worse at times when you’re affected by SAD.
If SAD affects you during winter, there are particular things you could try that might help. You could:
- Make the most of natural light. It might help to spend time in natural light, for example going for walks, spending time in parks or gardens, or simply sitting near a window. This seems to be helpful if you experience SAD in winter.
- Plan ahead for winter. For example, try to make meals in advance and freeze them if you know you are likely to lack the energy to do this during the most difficult period.
If SAD affects you during hot weather, there are particular things you could try that might help. You could:
- Drink plenty of water so that you stay hydrated.
- Find ways to keep cool, such as finding shade or wearing loose clothing.
- Visit indoor places. Staying inside all the time could make you feel isolated. It could help to try doing activities indoors, like visiting your local library or going to the cinema.
- Plan ahead for summer. For example, try to avoid going outside at the hottest times of day where possible.
If you feel that SAD is affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate to talk to someone. You can talk to GP, to us, or anyone around you that you trust. If you would like to know how we can help you, call 01482 240133 or email [email protected]
Information Credit: Mind
