Battling the Winter Blues

Battling the Winter Blues

Many of us get depressed in winter and suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or just feel low during the months of winter.

So if the short, dark days are getting you down, what can you do to pick yourself up?

Despite the fact that millions say that we suffer from a winter-related low mood many others think that the winter blues is just a myth. But there is actual proven scientific evidence to support the idea that the winter season really can affect our moods.

Most scientists conclude that the problem relates to the way the body responds to daylight. One theory is that light entering the eye brings about changes in hormone levels in the body.  Light functions to stop us producing the sleep hormone melatonin, and waking us up. SAD sufferers appear to be affected by the shorter hours of daylight in the winter. In response they produce higher melatonin, which in turn causes weariness and symptoms of depression, so if you have a bout of winter blues, lack of daylight is probably playing a part in that.

Since the winter blues is caused by lack of daylight, it’s no surprise that treatment involves getting more light. If you do suffer from depression in the winter, get outside as often as you can, especially on bright days. Sitting by a window can also help.

It is tempting to escape the dark winter days with a holiday to somewhere sunny and warm. This can help some, but other SAD sufferers have found that their condition gets worse when they return to the UK.

It’s also important to eat well during the winter. Winter blues can make you crave sugary foods and carbohydrates such as chocolate, pasta and bread, but don’t forget to include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet.

Another weapon against the seasonal slump is keeping active. There’s convincing evidence that just half an hour of vigorous exercise three times a week can help guard against depression.

Activity is believed to change the level of the mood-regulating chemical serotonin in the brain. And activity can also help by providing a pleasant change of scene, and helping you to meet new people.

MIND says research has shown that a one-hour walk in the middle of the day is an effective way to beat the winter blues.

So what are you waiting for? Get outside and exercise the winter blues away.

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Amanda Thomas

UK Health Radio

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