With Autumn time upon us, I have posted information which might be of help to you. Gives you facts, common signs,causes and how to take positive action.
What’s SAD
When the change in seasons have a great effect on your mood and energy levels, and lead to symptoms of depression that have a significant impact on your day-to-day life.
Common Signs
Lack of energy for everyday tasks
Concentration problems
Sleep problems
Depression, feeling sad, low, tearful, sometimes hopeless and despairing
Mood changes
Anxiety – tenseness and inability to cope with everyday stressess
Theoretical Causes
Lack of light (the hypothalamus, rules sleep, appetite, sex drive, temperature, mood and activity)
Low Serotonin, the mood regulator
High Melatonin levels, the pineal gland and hybernation (trials have shown that even after the Melatonin levels have returned to normal, most people continue to experience the depressive symptoms of SAD)
Disturbed body clock
Traumatic life events
Taking Positive Action – Reducing Symptoms
Make the most of natural light (doesn’t cure but can reduce symptoms)
Reduce stress (keep stressful events to Summer)
Exercise and eat well
Visit somewhere with more light
Consider using a light box
Improve your support network