Unlike other depressive conditions, the moods and behavioural symptoms of SAD only occur at certain times of the year.
If you experience SAD during the winter, you are more likely to notice weight gain, oversleeping, loss of libido, difficulty in concentrating and low self-esteem.
Researchers do not completely understand the cause of SAD but contributory factors appear to be serotonin and melatonin levels, lack of sunlight and lack of vitamin D. The condition also tends to affect more women than men.
There are a number of treatment options available for SAD, including light therapy and medication, cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy.
During psychotherapy sessions, a client would learn coping mechanisms and how to identify and change unhelpful negative thinking patterns. This can help the client to feel more in control and able to cope with what the dark days of winter.
If you feel that this is something that is affecting you and would like to talk to someone about getting support, please contact us here
This story is set in N. Ireland amidst an increasingly troubled political landscape and a troubled family life which is profoundly affected by her father’s developing mental illness and the consequent changing family relationships. Her mother’s mantra, ‘if you fall run on’, is a golden thread that weaves its way through the comedy and tragedy of this deeply inspirational story.
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www.psychologytoday.com have a very useful article on loneliness. The key points are show below and the full article is available at the link.
KEY POINTS
Please see the full article here
(WHO - World Mental Health Report 2022) show a significant increase in the deterioration of mental health and wellbeing across the lifespan. The Covid 19 pandemic, as well as the alarming global economic crisis has added considerable stress and strain on young people, families, individuals and within the work environment.
WHO statistics show an increase in Anxiety and Depression as well as in severe mental health conditions. It is reported that stigma and a lack of understanding of both the origins and the signs and symptoms of mental ill health remains high, often leaving sufferers feeling isolated and lonely. Over 9 million people in the UK are lonely at any given time (Wavelength Oct 20, 2022). It is clear therefore that feelings of loneliness are a sign and signal that all is not well and without attention, could lead to – or indicate a mental ill health condition. Those affected often suffer in silence and feel increasingly unable to reach out for help, often because they feel shame or burdensome. The health and wealth of our nations is often based on and measured by a range of statistics gathered by notable professional bodies. Nevertheless, mental health is everyone’s business, we are all impacted by it one way or another. In the absence of appropriate joined-up public services and the woeful lack of service provision, we can all play a part to lend a helping hand and open our hearts. By looking out for people in our communities whom we suspect may be experiencing loneliness, we can directly tackle the stigma associated with mental ill health – kindness such as this can save lives!
The Wavelength link here is a very helpful guide to how we might help.