As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, it can affect our mood significantly. For some, SAD kicks in. SAD, which stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder, is a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern.
According to the NHS website, symptoms of SAD can include:
- a persistently low mood
- a loss of pleasure or interest in everyday activities
- irritability
- feelings of despair, guilt, and worthlessness
- feeling lethargic and sleepy during the day
- sleeping for longer than usual and finding it hard to get up in the morning
- craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
If you’re worried about yourself or a loved one suffering from SAD, please get in touch with your GP.
The main treatments for SAD are:
- Lifestyle measures such as getting natural sunlight, exercising regularly and managing your stress levels
- Light therapy – SAD lamps for the win!
- Talking therapies such as CBT or counselling
- Antidepressant medicine
For more information on SAD, visit the NHS website.
Sending you love & light! Xoxo