Embracing the Change: Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder in the UK

Understanding the Impact of Daylight Saving Time

You might not be aware, but here in the UK, the clocks go back an hour at 2 AM on the last Sunday of October. The advantage is we get an extra hour, which many of us may use to spend in bed (I know I certainly do!).

However, the downside is the shorter days and longer nights as we lose natural daylight. As someone who has experienced this cycle for a few decades now (yes, I would consider myself middle-aged), I still find it surprising how quickly it sneaks up on me.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, is a type of depression that can occur repetitively at a particular time of year. It usually starts in autumn or winter and improves in spring. However, some people experience it in spring as they approach summer, especially if they struggle with warmer weather.

Symptoms can range from a general feeling of sluggishness and difficulty concentrating to longer-term effects on mood, sleep, diet, and other aspects of life. I have not received an official diagnosis, but I know that when I read about this topic, a lot of it resonates with me. Therefore, if you feel the same, I recommend reading more on this subject using the links below.

• NHS - Overview of SAD

• MIND - Information on SAD

  
  

Taking Charge of Your Wellbeing

Whether you believe you suffer from SAD or not, it is essential to take responsibility for your health and wellbeing. With that in mind, I wanted to share my three top tips for coping during this time of year:

1. Make the Most of Natural Daylight

This doesn’t have to be every day, but try to plan for spending time outdoors. Personally, I love the outdoors and make an effort to be outside, whether it’s going for a short walk or engaging in more active ventures, such as horse riding.

2. Focus on Enjoyable Indoor Activities

This is something you can decide for yourself. I have hobbies like listening to audiobooks and crocheting, which help me feel a sense of achievement. Finding activities that bring you joy can significantly improve your mood.

3. Be Kind to Yourself

This is probably the most important tip. I know I have struggled to get out of bed in the mornings when it’s dark and miserable. Recently, I bought myself a SAD lamp, and it has been great at helping me maintain my energy levels as it gets darker earlier in the day.

Seeking Support and Understanding

Remember, it's okay not to be okay. Whatever you may be feeling, whether this is a regular occurrence for you or a new experience, please know you are not alone. There is help and advice available if you need it.

If you find yourself struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for support. Connecting with others who understand can make a significant difference.

Conclusion

As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to care for our mental health. By embracing natural daylight, engaging in enjoyable activities, and being kind to ourselves, we can navigate this seasonal change more effectively.

Let’s support one another during this time and remember that brighter days are ahead.