December 2022: Combatting SAD

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight. It is estimated that over 2 million people in the UK struggle with SAD, with many of them being over 55 years old. If you are over 55 and living in the UK, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of SAD and to know that you are not alone.

What Are The Symptoms Of Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Symptoms of SAD can include feeling sad or hopeless, losing interest in activities you used to enjoy, having low energy, feeling sluggish or agitated, having trouble sleeping, and experiencing changes in appetite or weight. These symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with your daily life and should not be ignored.

Light Therapy For Seasonal Depression

If you are over 55 and living in the UK, there are several easy ways to combat SAD at home. One of the most effective ways to treat SAD is to expose yourself to bright light, also known as light therapy. This can be done by sitting in front of a special light box for a prescribed amount of time each day. Light therapy can help to improve mood, increase energy, and reduce the symptoms of SAD. You can also purchase lights that simulate natural sunlight to help improve your mood. When exposed to this light, your brain is encouraged to produce melatonin, which makes you sleepy and increases the production of the happy hormone serotonin.

Feel Invigorated By Fresh Air

Another way to fight the symptoms of seasonal depression is to exercise regularly. Exercise can help to improve mood and reduce stress, and it is especially beneficial when done outdoors in natural sunlight. Even a short walk around your neighbourhood can be helpful and will help you feel invigorated by the fresh, crisp air.

Eat For Health & Happiness

Comfort food has a special place in many people's hearts. It is the food that brings back happy memories, soothes the soul, and makes us feel loved and cared for. For many people, comfort food is a form of self-care. It is something that we do for ourselves to nurture our minds, bodies, and souls.

Eating comfort food can be especially beneficial for those who are struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Also known as the winter blues, SAD is a type of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight. It can cause symptoms such as sadness, low energy, and changes in appetite.

Comfort food can help to combat these symptoms in a number of ways. First, it can provide a sense of pleasure and enjoyment. When we eat something that we love, our brain releases chemicals that make us feel happy and satisfied. This can help to improve mood and reduce stress.

We Are Social Creatures

Socializing is an important part of combatting Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) for older adults. By connecting with others, you can combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can worsen the symptoms of SAD. In fact, social support is a key component of many treatment plans for SAD.

If you are over 55 and struggling with SAD, there are many ways to meet new people and socialize. You can join a local support group for people with SAD, attend events or activities at your local senior centre, or volunteer for a cause that you care about. You can also join online communities or forums to connect with others who are dealing with SAD.

You’re Not In This Alone

In addition to social support, it is also important to seek help from a mental health professional if you are struggling with SAD. Your doctor can help to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. You can also call one of the following helplines for support and information:

Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7 free helpline)

Mind: 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm)

Age UK: 0800 678 1602 (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 7 pm)

Remember that you are not alone and that there is help available for SAD. By reaching out for support, you can start to feel better and enjoy the winter months.