SAD

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that comes and goes with the seasons. Most people with SAD feel low during the winter months and feel better when spring and summer arrive. Some people get it in summer instead, but this is much less common.

What are the symptoms?

If you have SAD, you might notice:

• Feeling low or sad most of the time during winter
• Losing interest in things you usually enjoy
• Feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless
• Feeling restless or easily annoyed
• Finding it hard to concentrate
• Eating more and craving foods like bread and pasta
• Sleeping much more than usual and feeling very tired
• Thoughts of hurting yourself - if you have these, get help straight away

Some people also feel unusually energetic when spring starts.

What causes SAD?

Doctors aren't completely sure what causes SAD, but they think it's linked to having less daylight in winter. When there's less light, it can change the balance of chemicals in your brain like melatonin and serotonin. These chemicals affect your mood and sleep patterns.

When to see your GP

Speak to your GP if:

• You think you might have SAD
• You've been diagnosed with SAD but your treatment isn't helping

Get urgent help if you have thoughts of hurting yourself. Support is available 24 hours a day through NHS services.

If you're 18 or over (16 in some areas), you can also refer yourself directly to NHS talking therapies without seeing your GP first.

How is SAD diagnosed?

Your GP will ask about your moods and how they change throughout the year. You might fill in a questionnaire about your symptoms. You may be diagnosed with SAD if you've had depression symptoms at the same time each year for two years or more.

Treatment options

SAD can be difficult to cope with, but treatment can help. Options include:

• Antidepressants - medicines that can help balance brain chemicals
• Talking therapies - like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
• Light therapy - using special bright lights to make up for less daylight

Many people need treatment every winter to stop symptoms returning.

Light therapy

Light therapy uses very bright lights (called SAD lamps or light boxes) to copy natural daylight. The NHS doesn't usually provide these as there isn't enough proof they work for everyone, but many people find them helpful.

Speak to your GP before trying light therapy - it might not be safe if you have certain eye problems or take medicines that make you sensitive to light.

Things you can do to help yourself

• Get outside during daylight hours every day if possible
• Exercise regularly
• Stay in touch with friends and family
• Keep doing your usual activities
• Go to bed and wake up at the same times each day
• Limit alcohol and avoid illegal drugs
• Put phones and tablets away before bedtime

Getting support

Your GP can connect you with local support services. National charities like Mind and Rethink Mental Illness also offer information and support groups.

Remember, SAD is a real condition that affects many people. With the right help and treatment, you can manage your symptoms and feel better.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.