Signs of SAD - health condition affecting 'more people than ever'
SAD stands for seasonal affective disorder, and it's more common in the colder months.
by Andrew Nuttall · ChronicleLiveAs the weather gets colder and the dark nights roll in, some might find themselves grappling with lower mood.
Seasonal changes can often impact mood, but when it begins to significantly affect daily life, it could be indicative of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Sometimes referred to as 'winter depression', SAD is a mental health condition that persists for a prolonged period and impacts everyday life.
It's not exclusive to the colder months - it can happen at any time of year, but it's typically less noticeable in spring and summer. The precise cause of SAD isn't clear, but it's frequently linked to reduced sunlight exposure during the shorter autumn and winter days.
It's also thought that certain individuals may be genetically predisposed to SAD, as it appears to run in some families, reports the Express. While most symptoms can be easily overlooked, it's crucial to recognise when they start to become problematic.
A list of some common and uncommon symptoms include:
- a persistent low mood
- a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
- irritability
- feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
- feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day
- sleeping for longer than normal and finding it hard to get up in the morning
- craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
- difficulty concentrating
- decreased sex drive
A GP can conduct 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, which mimics sunlight exposure. Doctors may also recommend lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, spending time outdoors, and maximising exposure to natural sunlight.
Antidepressants can sometimes be taken, if approved by a healthcare professional. Also, talking therapy can be beneficial for some people.
In the UK, about 3 people in every 100 have significant winter depression, according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Therefore, it's important not to ignore the signs as it is a much more common condition than people believe.
The NHS website provides a wealth of resources for those grappling with mental health issues. If you or someone you know requires mental health support, don't hesitate to reach out using the provided contact details.
MIND, the mental health charity, offers a variety of self-help resources for those dealing with SAD. They also highlight several helplines for those in need of professional assistance.
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