SAD sufferer: Natalie Imbruglia
Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD as it is more commonly known is similar to some forms of depression leaving its sufferers feeling very low as the winter months approach.
Often you can feel incredibly alone and isolated from everything around you, simply wanting to climb into bed, safely tucked away from the world around you.
Many feel confused or even ashamed and embarrassed to suffer from SAD, but it is more common than people may first think, particularly for women.
Patients tend to be more prominant in areas where there are fewer hours of sunshine and warmth. So here in Britain it is unsuprising that it can be a health issue.
Laughter is invigorating. It recharges your battery. There are all kinds of studies showing how good laughter is for your brain, your health and your immune system.
Symptons can include:
Feeling low for the majority of the day
Loss of motivation for usual routines and activities
'Can't be bothered' feeling or lethargy
Sleeping more or feeling the need to sleep more
Comfort eating or eating more than usual - especially carbohydrates and sugars leading to weight gain
Little or no interest in sex
Celebrity life coach Ali Campbell has worked with everyone from A listers in singing sensation Kelly Rowland to the general public like you and me.
He has the reputation in the industry for being a Mr Fix-it and he has some handy hints on how to avoid those winter blues.
1. Lighten up: "Many studies have shown that there is a direct link between SAD and the amount of daylight we are exposed to. In the winter months this obviously drops and the effects can be dramatic. However, for just a few pounds a light box and a day light bulb can change all that and quickly too."
2. Lighten up with yourself: "Laughter is invigorating. It recharges your battery. There are all kinds of studies showing how good laughter is for your brain, your health and your immune system. It’s good for your mood, your immune system, and holiday depression. To overcome seasonal depression, find a reason to laugh every day.
3. Train your brain to be positive: "If you focus too much on what’s wrong in your life, your brain can get stuck in a “negative” rut. Fortunately, with just a little practice, you can condition your brain to balance your moods and overcome seasonal depression. One way is to create a daily “gratitude list.” Every day, take a minute or two to make a conscious effort to name things in life you are grateful for: your family, dog or cat, warm bed, a hot shower, ocean waves, music, coffee, and so on. Every time you do it, you condition your brain for appreciation and happiness."
It is important to try and speak to friends and family if you have SAD. The condition can take its strain on relationships and so it is always good to have a supportive ear to bend if you suffer particularly bad some days.
Additionally visiting a GP is always a good idea; this may confirm you as a SAD sufferer or you may just be having 'one of those weeks' as we all have from time to time. The tell tale sign that you are likely to be diagnosed with SAD is if your symptoms are not going away, as was the case for Aussy songstress Natalie Imbrulia, or if they keep coming back year on year.
So if you're feeling a little blue this Christmas, make the most of the mince pies, mulled wine and merriment and look forward to those longer days and brighter nights. And if you can't wait that long and a trip to the GP hasn't cured you...I'm sure a little trip with plenty of winter sun will do the trick.
FemaleFirst Jenna Fordie