On the so-called most depressing day of the year a GP has highlighted seven signs you could be suffering from a real disorder – and what you can do about it.
Blue Monday, which this year falls on January 17, originated as a PR stunt as has been built into a mythical gloomy 24 hours.
But Dr Stephanie Ooi, a general practitioner at doctor-led private healthcare business MyHealthcare Clinic in London, says many people experience a shift in mood at this time of the year and are left wondering why.
Seasonal affective disorder – also known as SAD – is a type of depression and occurs when the seasons change.
It can happen during any season but is more commonly found when the days are shorter.
Dr Ooi said: “It’s quite common for people to notice a change in mood when the mornings are dark and the sun sets in the afternoon rather than the evening.
“While such feelings can be dismissed as ‘the winter blues’, for many people it is much more than that. SAD can lead to feelings of low mood, lethargy, and not wanting to do things you would normally enjoy.”
According to the NHS, symptoms of SAD include:
- A persistent low mood
- Feeling low in energy and more sleepy during the day
- Finding it hard to get out of bed in the morning
- Getting irritable
- Overeating
- Losing interest in things you would normally enjoy
- Feelings of despair
The causes of SAD are unconfirmed, but it’s thought a lack of sunlight can lead to changes in the brain which affect levels of melatonin and serotonin in the body.
Dr Ooi said: “It’s a good idea to speak to your GP if you feel like these emotions are having a major impact on your life so they can help you find ways to manage them properly.
“It’s important to say that these symptoms won’t be the same for everyone. There will also be people who feel like this during the summer because SAD isn’t just about the cold, wet winter months.
“If you already struggle with mental health problems you might find certain seasons make your emotions more severe. Your doctor will help to assess if there is any pattern to how you are feeling.”
Treatment for SAD is the same as other depressive illnesses and can include medication and cognitive behavioural therapy.
People may also wish to try light therapies which can simulate exposure to sunlight to see if this alleviates symptoms.
Dr Ooi added: “Your doctor may also suggest lifestyle changes to help improve your symptoms. It’s more important than ever to get out into the fresh air and enjoy the sunlight. Keeping active can often help to improve mood.
“If work or family commitments mean you struggle to exercise outdoors during the day, make plans to meet friends or connect with people by starting a new hobby.
“It’s important to remember that you are not alone.”
MyHealthcare Clinic is a doctor-led private healthcare business offering personalised medical, dental and specialist medical care of the highest quality, all under one roof.
