There is a growing awareness around mental health and at this time of year, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can become a real problem, as can the less serious winter blues. Seasonal Affective Disorder is depression occurring at specific times of the year, usually Autumn and Winter although some can be affected during Spring and Summer. Luckily there are lots of things that can be done to help with the winter blues and lift a low mood.

Psychologist Andrew Bridgewater spoke to us about his experience of patients with SAD and said that 20% of the patients he sees suffer with SAD each year. He said that; ‘Anyone can experience SAD, especially if they find themselves under sustained stress or experience a very challenging life event at that time of year.’

 

 

Here Insulation Express have provided tips for coping with the winter blues and a calendar to get you started on preventing SAD this autumn.

From keeping active to eating well, we’ve got all the advice on how you can help yourself this Autumn/Winter.

Remember that whenever experiencing a low mood or symptoms of depression it is best to seek medical advice. This is not meant as a diagnostic tool, but to help those with the winter blues help themselves. See your GP if you have any symptoms of depression or seasonal affective disorder.