Light and seasonal affective disorder

Shorter days in Autumn are a sign to trees to begin to prepare for winter. During winter there is not enough light for photosynthesis to occur, so as the days shorten throughout the autumn, the trees slow down systems reducing chlorophyll in their leaves. The change of season, particularly shorter days and the loss of light can be difficult for some of us. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that can occur during particular seasons, usually Autumn and Winter but for some in Spring and Summer.

Symptoms of SAD can include:

• a persistent low mood

• a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities

• Irritability

• feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness

• feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day

• sleeping for longer than normal and finding it hard to get up in the morning

• food craving and weight gain

• difficulty concentrating

• decreased libido

  ( Source NHS)

NOTE: Spending time outdoors in nature can boost mood and reduce stress, even for as little as 10 minutes. If you are feeling overwhelmed seek help. Talking to someone you trust or seeking professional help can be beneficial like a GP, The Samaritans or Mind’s info line.