Don’t Get SAD

If you’re feeling a little low and lacking energy as the summer months draw to a close, you aren't alone.

SAD or seasonal affective disorder affects a staggering 1 in 3 of us but too often, the problem goes undiagnosed. The research, commissioned by The Weather Channel and YouGov shows that out of the 29% of British adults that are affected, woman are 40% more likely to suffer from the condition than men.

Over half (57 per cent) of adults say their overall mood is worse in the winter season compared to the summer season, highlighting the strong links between the weather and wellbeing. Meanwhile, 40 per cent of people suffer from fatigue during the winter months.

SAD is caused by a lack of sunlight during the dark winter months and the inability to make enough Vitamin D to keep the body and mind healthy. It’s no wonder so many of us suffer when the days become increasingly shorter and we find ourselves leaving the house for work in the dark and returning in the dark.

Symptoms include flu, colds, general ill health, mood changes, a tendency to oversleep, a lack of energy and a craving for carbohydrates as well as some more severe side effects such as depression and heightened anxiety.

According to the Independent, in addition to helping the body generate vitamin D, sunbeds are also known to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder. It makes perfect sense to us since a lack of sunlight is the cause.

Our conclusion: Don’t suffer in silence. Put the baked potato beans and cheese down, get off the sofa and pay a visit to your local Consol.