Feeling SAD this winter?
Martin Nicholson, our co-founder and Managing Consultant, reflects on his own experience of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).
I have often thought that to some extent I suffer with SAD in the winter months. Perhaps its because my long term love of cricket and golf either don’t occur, or are severely impacted in the winter months. Perhaps my love of those sports is connected to the sunshine and fresh air?
What I do know is that my spirits immediately lift once spring is in the air!
So what is the medical view on SAD? The NHS have a great overview on the condition: www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/overview
The theory is that a lack of sunlight might stop a part of the brain called the hypothalamus working properly and this could affect;
Melatonin - a hormone that makes you feel sleepy; in people with SAD, the body may produce it in higher than normal levels
Serotonin – a hormone that affects your mood, appetite and sleep; a lack of sunlight may lead to lower serotonin levels, which is linked to feelings of depression
Circadian rhythm – your body uses sunlight to time various important functions, such as when you wake up, so lower light levels during the winter may disrupt your body clock and lead to symptoms of SAD
For me personally in researching the subject its almost certainly the Serotonin causing me a few lower months but I know my mood will pick up when I force myself outdoors on sunnier days.
It’s Time To Talk Day on 1st February – why not pair up with a work colleague or friend, take an hour’s lunch break and just talk and walk. Or take advantage of the upturn in daylight hours and get out before or after work. Make a point of seeing more sunshine in February and let me know if you notice the difference.
Head to the Time To Talk Day website to find out more and download resources to get the conversation started: www.timetotalkday.co.uk/download-a-pack
And don’t forget our Awareness Day calendar: www.proaction-hr.co.uk/news/awareness-calendar-for-employee-engagement
