Now the days are drawing in for winter, it can take a heavy toll on our mental health. Shorter, darker days significantly heighten the risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), more commonly known as ‘winter depression’. It is thought to affect as many as 1 in 5 people in the UK every year (Nuffield Health, 2023).
Symptoms are often hard to diagnose due to the condition easing in lighter months which makes it even more important to raise awareness about this condition. Talking to a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms can lead to early intervention and better management of SAD and is the most reliable way to relieve it.
Recognising the signs
Persistent low moods, lethargy, difficulty concentrating, irritability, feelings or despair and disconnect from others are all indications.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these, here are some small changes you can make.
4 simple ways to start alleviating SAD
Talking to a professional is important but there are also ways you can begin helping yourself at home.
- Light therapy lamps
- Spending time outside
- Exercise
- Talk to friends and family
- Vitamin D supplements (recommended by the NHS)
These can increase the production of both serotonin and endorphins whilst reducing the production of melatonin therefore, boosting an individual’s mood.
World Mental Health Day
Today is the perfect time to reflect on our own well-being and to reach out to others.
Check in regularly on how your friends and family are feeling. A great way to broach this is by starting conversations with open-ended questions. Showing you care and are there to listen, helps build a safe space for them to talk openly about their mental health.
Together, let’s reduce the stigma surrounding seasonal mental health.
Our dedicated team at Care Horizons is here to listen and support you through these darker months. Get in touch with us today if you or a loved one could benefit from our support.
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