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“Winter Blues” may be more than winter blues

Saturday, 06 February 2010 23:03 Terry john goodlad
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If you are like most people then the weather can affect your motivation, happiness, appetite, and your general state of mind.  A sunny day most always feels better than a gloomy one but for some people it’s a much greater problem than just feeling a little blue on a cloudy day.

If the onset of winter is the beginning of some or all of these symptoms you may have a little more than just the “winter blues”, you may be suffering from a very common disorder called SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder.

  • change in appetite, in particular a craving for sweet or starchy foods
  • weight gain
  • decreased energy
  • fatigue
  • tendency to oversleep
  • difficulty concentrating
  • irritability
  • avoidance of social situations
  • feelings of anxiety and despair

The Canadian Mental Health Association website explains that if you feel extended periods of sadness, lack of motivation, increased desire to sleep and/or eat more carbohydrates, or in extreme cases, thoughts of suicide then see your family doctor immediately.

Approximately 2%-3% of the population experience symptoms of SAD and another 15% experience symptoms of “winter blues” and it is more common among women over the age of 20 so the effect that winter has on how you feel is common.

While research is still on-going with respect to the causes of SAD, exposing oneself to as much natural light as possible has netted the best results. The Canadian Mental Health Association recommends that you take walks outdoors during daylight hours.  They also recommend regular exercise and healthy eating habits.  If possible spending time in a sunny southern location will typically eliminate symptoms of SAD.

For more information log onto The Canadian Mental Health Association website.

By Terry Goodlad


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