Early sunsets affect mental health

Now that the festive season has come to an end, many people are faced with the challenge of making it through the rest of the generally cold, dark, and wet winter months. While some enjoy the gloomy weather, for others the lack of sunshine causes feelings of depression.

Winter Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression characterised by a recurrent seasonal pattern. Some of the most common symptoms consist of oversleeping, anxiety, overeating, and social withdrawal. The NHS estimates that about one in 15 people experience SAD across the UK.

Some people have found light therapy can be an effective way to treat symptoms. Light boxes simulate sunlight which can fill the gap during the dark months. It is thought the light may encourage your brain to reduce the production of melatonin and increase the production of serotonin, a chemical that carries messages between nerve cells in the brain and body and which plays an important role in mood, sleep, digestion, nausea, wound healing, bone health, blood clotting, and sexual desire.

Scientists have linked vitamin D deficiency to an increased risk of SAD because it is believed to promote serotonin activity. With less daylight in the winter, people with SAD may have lower levels of this vitamin, further reducing serotonin activity. Too little Vitamin D can have a major impact on mood disorders.

Experts recommend that SAD be treated in the same way as other types of depression. This would include the use of cognitive behavioural therapy which aims to help identify and explore the ways your emotions and thoughts can affect your actions and develop new coping strategies.

Exercise has long been used as a method to help boost mood as it increases the levels of endorphins in your blood. The fresh outdoor Scottish air can be rejuvenating but the cold is a clear deterrent for those who prefer a warm climate. If people are experiencing what they feel may be seasonal affective disorder, it is important they make an appointment with their GP to discuss possible treatment options.