Dealing with the ‘winter blues’

Jelf is the Institution’s partner for health and wellbeing for members.

It has reached that time of year again. The days are becoming shorter, the leaves have fallen and for some people, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as the ‘winter blues’, can set in.

SAD is a debilitating form of depression which stops those who are affected from functioning normally within the winter months – typically between September and March or April. Advice from Jelf can help members, and their loved ones, recognise and take steps to address the effects of SAD.

In the UK, approximately 20% of people experience mild symptoms - an alarmingly high number. These symptoms could be a lack of energy, concentration problems and sudden mood changes, all of which will affect how you feel and act.

What can you do?

Firstly, knowing about its affects and methods of treatment may help you understand how to minimise the effects of SAD and still be motivated. Some of the recognised treatments include:

Light exposure - Increased exposure to light is known to help sufferers, so go outside as much as possible, even if it’s just for a short walk. Light therapy can also help make up for the shortage of natural sunlight and can be extremely effective, working within a matter of weeks. Just 30 to 60 minutes a day can make all the difference.

Diet and lifestyle - We all know that a healthy diet and lifestyle promotes wellbeing, but regular exercise can also reduce the symptoms of SAD by raising your heart rate – another reason to put on your walking shoes!

Medication - Antidepressants may be helpful, as increased levels of serotonin can positively affect your mood, sleep and eating.

Cognitive behavioural therapy - There is some evidence that this therapy, which is a treatment for anxiety and depression in general, can help patients deal with SAD and may prevent sufferers experiencing further winter blues.

If you think that you, or anyone else you know, are struggling with SAD, a GP appointment should be made to get an overall assessment of your wellbeing.

Find out more about Jelf’s services for Institution members

Visit the Individual healthcare website for Institution members

You can contact the Jelf team on Tel: 0333 920 7410 or via email at Individualteam@jelfgroup.com.