SAD ’Seasonal Affective Disorder’

SAD is a type of depression that relates to changes in season. SAD usually begins and ends about the same time each year, beginning in the autumn and continuing through the winter. SAD can sap all your energy, make you feel miserable and moody in December and depressed in the spring. We know the symptoms of depression!

We can take steps to overcome these symptoms, to increase our mood and motivation, even prevent SAD from taking hold:

Make your environment sunnier and brighter. Open blinds, trim tree branches that block sunlight or add skylights to your home. Sit closer to bright windows while at home or in the office.

Get outside. Take a long walk, eat lunch at a nearby park, or simply sit on a bench and soak up the sun.

Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help — especially if you spend some time outside within two hours of getting up in the morning. Exercise regularly. Exercise and other types of physical activity help relieve stress and anxiety, both of which can increase SAD symptoms. Being more fit can make you feel better about yourself, too, which can lift your mood.

If you are already suffering from low energy, feeling irritable, have low energy or feeling depressed it may help to consider alternative medicine see your GP who may suggest anti-depressants take care of yourself, really indulge in your favourite pleasures get out and socialise contact a counsellor to resolve your anxieties and depression.

Article by Mary Mcilroy Counselling Services.