What is SAD?
As the season changes, the nights draw in and the days get shorter it has a massive effect on some people’s mental wellbeing. SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder so what is it?
SAD also known as ‘winter depression’ because the symptoms are usually more severe during winter. Some people with SAD may have symptoms during the summer and feel better during the winter.
4-6% of people suffer with SAD. Women are 10% more likely to suffer with SAD than men.
It has also been stated that people who have lived close to the equator before moving to the UK appear to be particularly at risk.
Symptoms of SAD
A persistent low mood
Lack of energy
Irritable
Craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
Feelings of despair
Decreased sex drive
Lack of concentration
Sleeping longer and finding it difficult to get up in the morning
Lack of interest in normal activities
Suicidal thoughts
So, what causes SAD?
It is not fully understood what causes SAD, however its often linked to the reduction in exposure to sunlight during the shorter days. The main theory is that the lack of sunlight might stop a part of the brain called hypothalamus working properly, which may affect the:
The production of melatonin – melatonin is the hormone that makes you sleepy: people with SAD, the body may produce higher than normal levels
The production of serotonin – this hormone affects your mood, appetite, and sleep. Lower levels are linked to depression.
Lack of Vitamin D – Vitamin D helps us stay awake and alert as well affecting our mood.
Your circadian rhythm or internal body clock. Our bodies use sunlight to time various functions such as when to wake up, with the reduced hours of sunlight our body clock may be disrupted leading to symptoms of SAD.
How do you treat SAD?
If suffering with symptoms you need to contact your GP, some of the treatments are
Lifestyle – Getting outdoors, natural sunlight and exercise. Reduce any stress levels.
Talking therapy – CBT or counselling
Medication – Anti-depressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Light therapy – A light box that stimulate sunlight