Why so SAD?

The clocks going back in October heralds the start of the dark commute as we leave our homes before sunrise and arrive home after dusk. Often it can feel like constant night as we miss the sunlight hours cooped up the office.

The ‘winter blues’ otherwise known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD) is caused by the shortening of daylight hours and the lack of sunlight in winter. It affects an estimated two million people across the UK each year between September and April.

The human body uses light cues, such as those provided by the sun, to time certain functions. Properly timed rhythms regulate mood, sleep, wake, appetite, digestion and energy. These daily internal cycles called ‘Circadian Rhythms’ sometimes fall out of time, meaning an unregulated body clock, resulting in the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Symptoms can leave us feeling lethargic, anxious and needing emotional support.

An example of SAD Symptoms include:

• Lethargy, lacking in energy, unable to carry out a normal routine
• Sleep problems, finding it hard to stay awake during the day, but having disturbed nights
• Loss of libido, not interested in physical contact
• Anxiety, inability to cope
• Social problems, irritability, not wanting to see people
• Depression, feelings of gloom and despondency for no apparent reason
• Craving for carbohydrates and sweet foods, leading to weight gain
• www.sad.org.uk

Help is at Hand

From the makers of Rescue Remedy®, Bach Original Flower Remedies are a system of 38 remedies which can help us rediscover the positive side of ourselves and lead emotionally healthy lives. Bach Original Flower Remedies are made from natural flower essences and are suitable for all the family.

So which of the 38 remedies could help? If you are feeling gloomy and can’t put your finger on why, add a few drops of Mustard to your water to help lift that dark cloud from above your head. If you have lost your drive and simply feel like you can’t be bothered, Wild Rose might help you find purpose.

We all know what Monday mornings feel like, but if you are getting that feeling throughout the week, try Hornbeam.

Shining a light on the problem

Previous treatments for depression and especially Seasonal Affective Disorder involved the use of prescribed medication.

In recent years, however, research across the world has shown that SAD sufferers responded, often quite dramatically, to treatment with light and has been shown to be effective in up to 85 per cent of diagnosed cases.

That is, exposure, for up to four hours per day (average 1-2 hours) to very bright light, at least ten times the intensity of ordinary domestic lighting.

SAD Light Therapy SAD Light Therapy

To treat SAD you need a proven Light Box (also known as a SAD Lamp or Light Therapy Box).

SAD Light Therapy products are entirely safe to use for for the majority of people and if you are generally healthy you should have no problem using one.

However, in some instances we advise you to consult your doctor/medical practitioner before you start using a lightbox (You should always consult your doctor for the diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder). To treat SAD you need a proven Light Box (also known as a SAD Lamp or Light Therapy Box).

For a list of recommended suppliers visit www.sad.org.uk/recommended

Let’s Talk

Psychotherapy, counselling or any complementary therapy which helps the sufferer to relax, accept their illness and cope with its limitations are extremely useful.

Look for a local therapist or visit the The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. www.bacp.co.uk