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The holidays are over, the weather is miserable, the bills from those extravagant Christmas presents have just arrived, and the New Year’s resolutions have already fallen by the wayside. No wonder so many people view January as the most depressing time of the year. In fact, it’s around this time of year that seasonal affective disorder (SAD) tends to hit the hardest. Read on to discover what it is, what causes it, and what can be done about it.
According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, around 9% of Scotland’s population are affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that comes and goes with the seasons. Symptoms are usually at their worst during the autumn and winter, when the days are shorter and darker. It’s natural to feel a little tired and unmotivated when the weather is miserable, however SAD is much more serious than just having the odd ‘down day’.
Whilst the exact cause of SAD is still not yet fully understood, it is believed to be connected to the lower levels of sunlight in autumn and winter which can affect the body’s production of melatonin and serotonin. This can have a detrimental effect on an individual’s sleep, mood and energy levels.
Whilst symptoms can vary from person to person, typical symptoms may include the following:
Left untreated, SAD can start to impact all areas of a person’s life – home life, social life and work life – so it’s important to be aware of the signs and to step in and help those you think may be struggling, or reach out if you think you may be affected.
Whilst the low levels of sunlight may be directly related to the prevalence of SAD in Scotland, there are things you can do to minimise its effects, without resorting to upping sticks and emigrating.
If the lifestyle changes listed above don’t make a significant difference, speak to your GP. They may recommend one of the following:
If you think you’re experiencing season affective disorder, you can book an appointment at YourGP using our simple online booking system. Or you can email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 381 0322 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you. We take mental health seriously, and whatever time of the year, we’re here to provide expert healthcare, right when you need it.
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