Seasonal Depression

It’s that time of year where the season is changing and we are coming into winter. As the seasons change it’s important to acknowledge the effect this can have on our mental health. Which is why in this blog we will be addressing the very important topic of, seasonal depression which is formerly known as seasonal affective disorder.

With shorter days & less sunlight it’s not uncommon  for seasonal depression to occur. However, it’s often not acknowledged or spoken about enough. So let’s dive into what it is, how to spot it, and how to look after yourself this winter season. 

Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that comes and goes based on the season. It often occurs in autumn or winter seasons because our days are shorter and we get less exposure to sunlight. 

As the season changes you may notice:

• You are struggling to get out of bed in the mornings and sleeping longer than usual.
• You have no motivation or energy to do things.
• Lack of pleasure in everyday activities.
• You are sleeping more than usual/ sleeping throughout the day.
• Feeling low persistently.
• You are easily annoyed or irritable.

Those are some of the symptoms that occurs with seasonal depression and can affect people in various different ways. Some may experience mild symptoms which can easily be missed whereas some might be more severe.

As we know lack of sunlight is one of the main causes but also includes other factors such as genes. There are so many benefits of sunlight not just scientifically. I mean you could be going through the worst time, but simply booking a holiday to a hot country automatically makes everything feel better. Sometimes a change of scenery and the hot sun makes all the difference. But why is sunshine so important? 

Lack of sunlight can cause a part of the brain called the hypothalamus to stop working properly. This affects the production of serotonin which is a hormone that affects our sleep, mood and appetite. The body will produce lower serotonin levels that is often linked to feelings of depression. Lack of sunlight also affects the production of melatonin, a hormone that makes us feel sleepy. Which means more melatonin is produced than usual causing symptoms of seasonal depression. Not only does sunlight affect the production of hormones. Our body uses sunlight to time important moments such as when we wake up. Therefore, less light in winter disrupts our body clock causing symptoms of seasonal depression. 

So there we have it there is proof that catching a flight can solve all our problems after all. However, not all of us can afford the luxury of catching a flight every time autumn and winter comes around. So what can we do to look after ourselves in these seasons? 

It all starts with making lifestyle changes in preparation for the winter season. 

1. Getting as much natural light as possible by going out for walks. Although it’s winter and gloomy, it’s important to talk regular walks. 

You can also purchase light therapy lamp specifically designed to help improve low mood. Which can be purchased using this link: https://amzn.eu/d/d6lh3QT

2. Exercise, keeping fit and active helps to boost your mood. Doing exercise outside in daylight is also a bonus!

3. Eat a healthy balanced diet and drinks lots of water. 

4. Make it a priority to take your vitamins. 

5. Increase your self-care, what better way to lift your mood than pampering yourself and doing things that makes you feel good. Take some time to pour into yourself even more in this season. 

6. Have a morning and a night routine before bed. 

7. Talk to someone about how you feel and do not bottle it up, that can be a trusted family/ friend or you may want to seek professional help. 

And of course I have to leave with you the most important help of them all, Jesus Christ! He is our constant help in time of need and simply meditating on his word brings hope. Here are some encouraging scriptures to uplift you when you are feeling low. 

“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” Deuteronomy 31:8

“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honourable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Philippians 4:8

“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Saviour and my God!” Psalms 42:11 

We hope you enjoyed this blog, until next time.