What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as ‘winter depression’, is a type of depression that can affect people any time of year - but more commonly occurs in winter.
Talking therapies and CBT can help with this, however there are also many useful tips which you can do at home to support with SAD.
Bursts of daylight
Although there’s not much of it around during this season, every little truly helps. Getting out of the house to brave the cold may feel daunting, but even a short burst of daylight is sure to lift your mood. It’s also helpful to make your working environment as light as possible, so try to sit near a window, and if possible, wrap up warm and get a breeze circulating through the room.
Getting your steps in
Ever heard the phrase ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing’? So grab some waterproofs, and aim to walk as often as you can. Even though it may be grey and cold, there’s still lots of nature to see if you look close enough. If you’re wandering through the park or in the woods, you’ll notice plenty of birds and squirrels in the pastel wintry light.
If you can’t face the cold weather, don’t worry - there are also plenty of indoor exercises you can try.
Daily dose of vitamin D
Official government guidance recommends that everyone should consider taking a vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter. If you’re a foodie, you can also get this vital vitamin from oily fish, red meat, liver, egg yolks and fortified foods.
Autumn and winter can be tough seasons for many. Early nights can make the word feel no bigger than your living room, and landscapes can often look bare. Just remember that these simple tips can support in improving your mood, helping you to appreciate the beauty of the colder seasons.
Do you have any other tips to support with SAD? Let us know @NorthpointMH
Guest blog written by Billy Gardner, one of our Community Wellbeing Connectors
