As the days grow colder and shorter, some individuals may find themselves wrestling with depression. Seasonal shifts can often influence mood, but when it starts to significantly disrupt daily life it could be a sign of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Often dubbed 'winter depression', SAD is a mental health condition that lasts for an extended period and affects everyday life.
However, it's not confined to the colder months - it can occur at any time of year, although it's usually less noticeable in spring and summer. With the weather forecast in Wales this week looking particularly grim, the impact of the cold and darker days may be felt particularly more deeply with those who have SAD. Its exact cause isn't entirely understood, but it's often associated with reduced exposure to sunlight during the shorter autumn and winter days.
READ MORE: Why young children are less likely to get severe Covid as XEC variant spreads across Europe READ MORE: Assisted dying could become legal in England and Wales It's also believed that certain people may be genetically predisposed to SAD, as it seems to run in some families, according to the Express . While most symptoms can be easily dismissed, it's vital to recognise when they start to become troublesome. A list of some common and uncommon symptoms include: A GP can carry out an assessment to evaluate your mental health and help you find the most effective treatment plan if you suspect that you, or someone you know, is struggling with S.