Are you one of the many hundreds of people who suffer in silence during the dark winter months?

So many people are “down” in winter, fed up, miserable, and for some, the symptoms are more severe and can disrupt their lives, their relationships, and their working life.

What is SAD?

“Seasonal Affective Disorder" (SAD) is a type of winter depression that affects an estimated half a million people every winter between September and April, in particular during December, January and February. It is caused by a biochemical imbalance in due to the shortening of daylight hours and the lack of sunlight in winter.

Research has shown that light also affects the production of serotonin. Bright light increases production whilst low levels of light mean low levels of serotonin, a known cause of depression. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that carries signals between nerves in the brain, so this also fits with what people say: tasks that are easy when you are well can be frustratingly difficult when you are depressed."
Dr. Chris Steele

TIPS to make life easier in the winter months

1. Prepare and take action in advance. In summer, whilst you still feel good, make a note on your calendar to prepare for winter.

2. Write down what support might help you, and a pro-active plan to manage your condition. E.g. find a support group, there may well be a SAD group in your area. Look up www.sad.uk.com

3. Make a note to see your Doctor (hopefully they will be sympathetic…..this is NOT just a “pull yourself together” condition.)  Ask for help.

4. Plan to get some exercise in winter.  This does help “manage” the brain chemicals.

5. Alcohol may well make you feel worse.  Try to stay off it if you can.

6. Give yourself a daily treat……..you have to try to stick with this.

7. Give yourself permission to stay at home if you don’t feel like socialising.

8. Really be kind to yourself…..as you might if you were caring for someone else.

9. An absolute life-saver………..invest in a LIGHTBOX (www.outsidein.co.uk).This is no ordinary light, but a light so strong it stimulates the production of serotonin in the brain, and through consistent daily use, you will soon begin to feel like  your summer sunshine self.

10. Finally, don’t feel bad about feeling bad.  Its not your fault, you are not weak, or full of self-pity……it REALLY is the WEATHER.