The summer seems like so long ago, doesn’t it? In the blink of an eye, we’re knee-deep in a new season. And soon we’ll be knee-deep in crunchy autumn leaves. Pumpkin Spiced lattes are back, woolly jumpers find their way to the top of the pile, socks are on feet and the heating is ON!
But not everyone feels happy about the onset of Autumn. And not all of us are in raptures about new beginnings. The cycle of Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter calls for different energy. Different ways of doing things and a different way of being. The transition between one season and the next can take its toll, especially if you’re a person resistant to change.
Your sleep, mental, physical and emotional health can suffer as we move from one time of year to another. And it’s no surprise. The clocks go back at the end of October and we’re plunged into darkness before 5pm. Dragging yourself out of bed when it feels like the middle of the night is no joke either. And then there’s the rain…
It’s not uncommon to question; ‘Do I have Seasonal Affective Disorder?’
And to some extent we all do. The NHS describes Seasonal Affective Disorder as ‘A type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern.’ Most often, this manifests itself as feeling low during the Autumn and Winter, but brighter in the Spring and Summer.
Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder include:
- A persistent low mood
- A loss of pleasure in everyday activities
- Irritability
- Feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
- Lethargy
- A change in sleep pattern
- Craving stodgy foods
Sound like you? If you’re struggling with the change in season, there’s plenty you can do to lift your spirits.
And remember, it’s pretty common for your mood to be affected by the season. It’s thought that Seasonal Affective Disorder is linked to the limited sunlight in Autumn and Winter – especially as it drops off significantly and swiftly after Summer. Research is inconclusive as to why, but studies have shown that the hypothalamus, which controls many bodily functions, including the release of hormones from the pituitary gland, needs input from sunlight to ensure it does its job. Which is good news – as you can help it along.
So, can you combat Seasonal Affective Disorder? The short answer is yes. There’s a multitude of possible solutions that will make the month-on-month adjustments your body and brain need to adapt to, that little bit easier.
- Consider light therapy – used daily, most people report an uplift in mood within a week or so
- Keep to the same wake / sleep cycle – day in, day out – and even at the weekend
- Exercise – ideally outdoors when it’s light
- Look into aromatherapy – scent is well known to be a brilliant mood enhancer
- Make supplemental oxygen a part of your daily routine. Used regularly, supplemental oxygen can boost your brain function and revitalise your senses
- Lean in – go with the flow of the season, if you can. Enjoy your jumpers and scarves and take time choosing a new candle for your home
- Invest in vitamins – B for energy, D to simulate sunshine, turmeric for inflammation, peppermint for a pick-me-up and chamomile to aid sleep
But if you can’t shake off Autumn blues, it may be worth checking in with your GP for some professional advice. Hunker down and enjoy this Autumn-inspired piano music – guaranteed to raise a smile.
