We know that when we hit January, February and March, the hours of daylight we get to enjoy decrease considerably.
And this low amount of daylight contributes to our mood and how we’re feeling quite dramatically. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects many of us more than we realise, and it can lead people into states of mild depression. After the last 12 to 18 months of lockdowns, restrictions, and uncertainty – SAD could be affecting a lot more of us than usual.
Seasonal Changes
It’s a thing. And although awareness of it has increased over the last ten years, people don’t always believe that it’s a real disorder.
Do you have any of these symptoms as we hit the cold, winter months?
- Losing interest in activities that you normally enjoy
- Feeling down most of the day, nearly every day
- Problems sleeping
- Changes in your appetite or weight
- Feeling sluggish or agitated
- Having difficulty concentrating
- Feeling hopeless
The seasonal changes throughout the year can bring a seasonal change in our mood. Just think how much better you feel on a warm sunny morning, than you do on a cold, wet winter one, for example.
The main theory behind SAD is that a lack of sunlight might stop a part of the brain called the hypothalamus working properly. This in turn can increase the production of melatonin, the hormone that makes you feel sleepy. And serotonin is the hormone that affects your mood, appetite, and sleep. Lack of sunlight may lead to lower levels of this too. Add the body’s internal clock being thrown out of synch with the clocks changing too. and that disruption can also lead to symptoms of SAD.
What can help?
According to the NHS website, you should consider seeing a GP if you’re struggling to cope, and you think you might have SAD. They can assess your mental health and may ask about your mood, lifestyle, eating habits, and sleeping patterns.
And if your doctor approves it, there are several products available that may help to supplement your recovery. Modern Herbals stock some of them, and we’re always on hand to advise what may be a good product to try.
Felix Affron: This is a feel-good supplement that contains specialised extracts of saffron which help to maintain a positive mood. Research indicates that Affron Saffron Extract may help with mood, stress, and anxiety. It may also aid sleep, cognition, vigour, and vitality. As well as relaxation, mental and physical balance, and maintaining the feel-good feeling. It’s available to buy for £17.59 from Modern Herbals and is delivered to you free.
Vitamin D: Studies have also shown that people who suffer from SAD have low levels of Vitamin D in their system. This can be caused by low dietary intake of the vitamin or not enough exposure to sunshine. So, with that in mind, Vitamin D supplements are easily obtainable, and Strath with Vitamin D is available to buy from Modern Herbals for £19.99 with free delivery.
Light at the end of the tunnel
Remember, SAD is seasonal. When the lighter and the sunnier days return, people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder can see an instant improvement in their mood, sleeping habits, and their general feeling and wellbeing.
However, we always recommend giving your GP a call if you’re feeling anxious, have a low mood or you’re just not feeling quite like yourself. Speak to them and talk about how you feel and let them chat through the best course of action for you.
The NHS recommends several simple things that may improve the symptoms.
- Try to get as much natural sunlight as you can, even if it’s just a very short walk at lunchtime.
- Make your work and home environments as light as you can.
- When you’re indoors, try and sit near windows.
- Exercise regularly – particularly outdoors and in daylight.
- Make sure you eat a healthy and balanced diet.
- Where you can, avoid stressful situations – taking steps to manage any stress.
- It can also be helpful to talk to your family and friends about SAD. Let them understand how your mood may change during the winter months (this can help them to support you).
If a feel-good supplement or an increase in your Vitamin D intake is something that appeals to you, please give Modern Herbals a call. We’ll happily chat with you and discuss the benefits of our products.
For more information on supplements that may assist with SAD symptoms, contact Modern Herbals today on 0800 731 0725. Or email us: info@modernherbals.com
