Seasonal Affective Disorder – how to beat the ‘winter blues’

Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, is a type of depression that affects people most during the colder, darker months of the year.

SAD can make you:

• Feel low and sad
• Lose interest in the things you usually enjoy
• Feel low in energy and sleepy during the day
• Sleep for longer and find it difficult to get up in the morning
• Find it difficult to concentrate
• Crave sugary and starchy foods more

You can find out more about Seasonal Affective Disorder here.

If you notice yourself feeling low during the darker months, here are some ideas that can help to lift your mood:

• Getting as much sunlight as possible
• Exercising regularly, which also helps to lower your stress levels – also a great opportunity to socialise with others outside!
• Making time for the things you enjoy
• Reducing the amount of time you spend in front of a screen
• Getting enough sleep

Roughly 1.3 million people in the UK suffer from SAD each year. For some people, the symptoms can have a big impact on day-to-day activities.

If you’re finding things a struggle, we’re here to help. Find out more about our free NHS talking therapies cor self-refer via the button below.