What is SAD?

SAD stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. It’s a type of depression that occurs during the winter months, usually in December and January. People who suffer from this condition are often referred to as “winter blues” or “seasonal affective disorder”. The symptoms of SAD include:

• Depression
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Poor concentration
• Lack of motivation
• Anxiety

What is the main cause of SAD

The main cause of SAD is lack of sunlight. When we get more light during the day, our body produces more melatonin which helps us sleep at night. During the winter months when there is less daylight, our bodies produce less melatonin. This leads to increased levels of cortisol and decreased levels of serotonin. These changes can lead to feelings of sadness and low mood.

Now we know the common causes of SAD, how can we ease it? 

There are many ways you can help yourself feel better during the winter months.

Here are some tips on how to beat the winter blues:

Exercise regularly

Try to exercise outdoors every day. If you go to the gym, try and walk there and back and get some fresh air and sunlight. Alternatively, a daily 30 minute walk outside will do the trick.

Prepare your mind

If you’ve had SAD before it’s a great idea as we enter into Autumn, to prepare your mindset. Start doing enjoyable activities, initiating friend group chats and outings, choosing fun hobbies, engaging in clubs and maybe some community service.

Get enough rest

Sleep is important for both physical and mental health. Try to get eight hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Try and avoid screen time and caffeine a few hours before bedtime.

Try a SAD lamp

A SAD lamp, light or light box uses light therapy to help improve your mood. They produce very bright lights to recreate the morning sunlight.

Consider taking multi-vitamins

Different things help different people, Multi-vitamins can help you overcome some of the SAD symptoms. For example, our Vitality & Wellness supplements are an all-natural support formula for women, containing a blend of high quality ingredients to help through times of hormonal imbalance, reduced libido, stress and tiredness. A perfect pick-me-up for the winter months. Vitamin-D is also recommended to top-up during the winter months.

Let the sunshine in

When you’re indoors, keep your curtains and blinds open and let in as much natural light as possible.

Consider avoiding alcohol

Drinking may cause more problems than it cures. For starters it can affect your sleep. Try and reduce your intake, maybe stop drinking alcohol during the week and see how you go.

Although experts don’t know exactly what causes SAD, like all mental health disorders, it’s likely related to a variety of factors, including biological, environmental, and psychological factors. We hope this blog helps you ease or even stop SAD progressing as we get further into Winter. Try a few of our tips and pop onto our new website and view our vegan friendly vitality and wellness capsules.