Combat S.A.D. by getting outside for a few hours

The onset of winter will see most of us feeling a little blue. The reduction in day light hours can make us all feel less active and tired, and many of us will have a tendency to eat more. For some, however, this natural loss of energy and enthusiasm with the change of season is far too strong. When this happens you may be suffering from Seasonal Affected Disorder (S.A.D) or the winter blues.

S.A.D is a recognised form of depression that develops in the winter months and usually disappears in the spring and summer, but some scientists disagree. It is a condition that may display similar symptoms to depression. If you experience a noticeable alteration in your mood, behaviour and sleep with the change from summer to autumn that you may be suffering from S.A.D.

Some people suffering from S.A.D. cut themselves off from family and friends, feel irritable and experience a loss of libido. Generally life becomes a task and for some unbearable with feelings of low self- esteem and sometimes guilt. If you are experiencing these feelings then it is important that you should consult your general practitioner for advice.

Because many S.A.D. sufferers have been helped by light therapy it is suggested that the primary reason for S.A.D. symptoms is the lack of adequate light in the dark winter months. You should try to get outside for between one and two hours every day and avoid using sunglasses.

Seeking psychological support during the darker months can also be very helpful as can light therapy and some of the complementary therapies available such as acupuncture, homeopathy, herbal remedies, massage, reflexology, yoga, mindfulness, CBT and natural restoration of gut bacteria can be complementary.

Usual symptoms of S.A.D. :
Lack of initiative, lack of concentration, weight gain, sudden mood swings, loss of libido, intense fatigue, feeling guilty and worthless, disrupted eating habits, lack of adequate sleep and early morning wakening.

It is essential to consult your doctor before you embark on any self treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions.

Dr. Bhatti has been treating winter blues for more than 25 years.

To discuss conditions treated and therapies offered at our clinic, contact Dr. Bhatti at (087) 1915051 or email health@drbhatti.ie.   During your first office visit, Dr. Bhatti may ask you at length about your health-condition, lifestyle and behaviour.  Please consult your GP before starting new treatment. 

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Always consult your G.P. for Medical advice and before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. The publisher of this article or any information provided on this site including text, graphics, images, cannot be held responsible for any errors or any consequences arising from the use of the information contained in this article or this site or its pages. In case of an emergency always contact your Doctor and the emergency services immediately. The information provided on these pages, site and our clinic does not constitute as a medical advice.

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