a fifo wife {me: seasonal affective disorder}

Ever heard of SAD…Seasonal Affective Disorder..its a type of depression that only happens in winter. Come spring most people (women are more susceptible) come good and literally as right as rain. It starts in late Autumn and continues through winter.

Most doctors think that a number of factors trigger SAD, including:

• Genetic response to sunlight– some animals, such as bears, hibernate in winter. Research suggests that reduced levels of sunlight also affect humans. However, some people are significantly more affected than others. This susceptibility may be partly genetic.
• Circadian rhythm– this ‘internal body clock’ is located in the brain and helps the body to regulate sleep and wake cycles. Regulation depends on sunlight. In some people, the shorter days in winter may disrupt the circadian rhythm and alter brain functioning.
• Altered brain regulation – melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain and in the body. It triggers sleep and is produced in response to reduced light. Daylight switches off its production in the body. The shorter daylight hours of winter encourage a longer duration of melatonin, which may be a cause for those susceptible to SAD.

And whilst I always highly recommend going to a doctor here are some self help options for in the mean time to try:

Increase sunlight exposure– extra sunshine every day can ease symptoms. For example, put your work desk next to a window, if possible, or eat your lunch outdoors. Extra sunlight during the winter months may be the only treatment necessary in mild cases of SAD.

Bring sunshine into your home– install skylights, keep the curtains open and cut back trees or bushes that block light from your windows.

Get some exercise– regular exercise is an effective treatment for depression and anxiety. Boost the benefits by shifting your exercise routine to the outdoors, weather permitting.

Look after yourself– make sure you have good sleeping habits and eat a healthy diet. Avoid cigarettes, drugs and excessive amounts of alcohol.

If none of this is helping then you should get yourself to a doctor quick smart.

I suffer mildly from it in winter only when its been raining non stop like it has been and the sunshine is literally fleeting. Last year it rained so much the boys would scream with excitement when the sun came out…the sun mum the sun..it was crazy. Its predicted to rain for another week here..so I will be dancing in the sunlight every time it appears, sniffing lemons (lemon essence is thought to help lift ones spirits) and eating banna’s (a natural antidepressant).

Have a great Wednesday my lovelies,

xx Deb