SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

What is SAD?

It's that time of year again, particularly as the clocks go back, it's starting to dark earlier in the morning and then again in the afternoon.

Many people, almost 2 million people in the UK alone, struggle with the shorter days and longer nights. Increasingly, it recognised that it's more than just the 'winter blues' and that the reduced levels of sunlight has an impact on the serotonin the body produces and then affecting the way we feel.

Serotonin is the hormone that helps to regulate our mood.

What are the symptoms of SAD?

Is SAD something you have been struggling with, without knowing. Below are a few indicators that you may be suffering with SAD

Experience slight weight gain
Alternatively may have a reduced appetite
Increasingly emotional
Reduced motivation to go out and socialise
Potentially more irritable
Sleep patterns can be affected

Ways to cope with SAD

Make yourself get outside into the open air; wrap up accordingly!
Regulate your sleep so that you go to bed and wake up and consistent times
Be conscious of what you eat with plenty of proteins and vitamin D
Try to eat the colours of the rainbow to ensure a balanced diet
Exercise is great for both your mental and physical health; maybe also do it with friends or join a club
Get as much natural light as possible throughout the day
Spend time with people that make you happy
Plan ahead so you have things to do but also anticipate what needs to be done
Getting things 'done' can really help you maintain a positive outlook
Volunteering gets you out, gets you doing something you enjoy and can help you interact with people

If you continue to struggle with SAD do go to your local healthcare professional for advice.

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