Feeling Blue?

If the start of winter has left you low, it could mean you’re experiencing seasonal affective disorder…

- Faye M Smith

Dread the dark nights and cold days? You’re not the only one – it’s normal to feel affected by the changing seasons. In fact, 57% of Britons experience low mood at this time of year compared to during the summer. But if the onset of winter seems to be seriously impacting your life each year, then it could be a seasonal affective disorder (also known as SAD). ‘As the days start getting noticeably shorter, some people find their mood becomes subdued,’ says Lloyds Pharmacy pharmacist Pareena Patel. ‘SAD is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons, which tends to start in the autumn and then becomes worse during December, January, and February.’ Here’s what to watch out for, and how to beat it…

It’s linked to our geography

SAD is most common in countries like the UK where there are large changes in the weather and daylight hours in different seasons. ‘Research has shown that those living farthest from the equator in northern latitudes have a higher susceptibility to SAD than their southern counterparts,’ explains Dr. Meg Arroll, a chartered psychologist on behalf of Healthspan. ‘For example, in the United States only 1% of people who live in Florida experience SAD compared to 9% of Alaskans.’

Not feeling like yourself?

‘A drop in mood isn’t the only sign of SAD,’ says Pareena. ‘You may also be less active than normal and find you don’t have as much energy. You may have problems sleeping or feel the need to sleep a lot more than usual. Anxiety, panic attacks, stress, poor appetite, overeating, weight gain, frequent colds and loss of sex drive are all symptoms too.’ Plus, look out for a reluctance to socialize, difficulties in concentration and comfort-food cravings.

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