Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern. It’s often referred to as ‘winter depression’ because the symptoms are more apparent during the colder months. Some people benefit from ‘light therapy’ to mimic the sun during winter months when it’s harder to soak up sunlight.
As the days grow colder and shorter, some individuals may find themselves wrestling with depression. Seasonal shifts can often influence mood, but when it starts to significantly disrupt daily life, it could be a sign of SAD. Often dubbed ‘winter depression’, SAD is a mental health condition that lasts for an extended period and affects everyday life. However, it’s not confined to the colder months – it can occur at any time of year, although it’s usually less noticeable in spring and summer.
With the weather forecast in Wales this week looking particularly grim, the impact of the cold and darker days may be felt particularly more deeply with those who have SAD. Its exact cause isn’t entirely understood, but it’s often associated with reduced exposure to sunlight during the shorter autumn and winter days. It’s also believed that certain people may be genetically predisposed to SAD, as it seems to run in some families, according to the Express.
While most symptoms can be easily dismissed, it’s vital to recognise when they start to become troublesome. A GP can carry out an assessment to evaluate your mental health and help you find the most effective treatment plan if you suspect that you, or someone you know, is struggling with SAD. Primary treatments include light therapy, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and spending time outdoors, and maximising exposure to natural sunlight. Antidepressants may be an option, if recommended by a healthcare professional, while talking therapy can prove beneficial for some individuals.
In the UK, significant winter depression affects about three in every 100 people, as per the Royal College of Psychiatrists. The NHS website offers a list of resources for those wrestling with mental health problems, and MIND, the mental health charity, provides a range of self-help resources for those coping with SAD, along with several helplines for those requiring professional help. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, don’t hesitate to reach out using the provided contact details.