Do you feel down in winter more than summer?
About 1 in 100 people in the UK feel significantly worse in winter. This is known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD. (Some few get this in summer rather than winter.) The main symptoms (which vary from person to person) are tiredness, sleep problems and craving sweet or sugary foods. Other symptoms can include: over eating, difficulties concentrating, anxiety, loss of interest in sex, mood changes and social problems. Many more people suffer milder symptoms and this is commonly known as the 'Winter Blues'. Many do not even realise it is happening as the symptoms may gradually get worse as the days get darker and shorter.
What can you do about it?
Your doctor will be able to discuss your symptoms with you, ways of managing them and possible treatments and there are some simple things you can do to help straight away.
Scientists have found links between these symptoms and lower light levels so one simple thing you can do is get outside more and make the most of the natural light that is there. Getting exercise also helps many people with depression so you could try going for a brisk walk at lunchtime or even just make sure you sit by a window so you get as much light as possible. If you are having cravings make sure you still eat a healthy balanced diet.
You may have heard that lamps can help people with SAD. These lamps are different to the kind of lights you have indoors normally as they are much brighter so don't make the mistake of thinking that sitting indoors with all the lights on is going to make any difference. Sun beds are not a suitable treatment either.
Ask your GP for more information.