Don’t be SAD
As the nights draw in and the temperatures drop, many of us can find ourselves feeling a bit down, but for one in 15 people in the UK such feelings can develop into what is known as: ‘Seasonal Affective Disorder’ (SAD).
A type of depression, SAD comes and goes in a seasonal pattern and is sometimes called the ‘Winter Blues’ because the symptoms are more apparent and tend to be more severe during the winter, typically between September and April.
Symptoms may include low mood, being irritable, lacking energy and craving sweet or fatty foods with feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness.
The condition is often caused by a disruption of the body clock and hormone imbalance through shortened daylight hours and a lack of daylight. Apart from conventional treatments for depression, SAD can be greatly improved by taking some of the following practical measures:
- Make the most of natural light and take your breaks
- Eat as much fresh fruit and vegetables as you can, as part of a balanced diet
- Make room for some regular exercise, outdoors if possible
- Try to reduce or manage your stress levels
- Talk to your family, friends or line manager about SAD so that they can help to support you
- If you notice that someone seems to be feeling down, ask them how they are and give them an opportunity to talk if they want to.
If you are affected by mental health issues then help is at hand should you need it.
We want everyone who works for Royal Mail to feel that they can be open about their mental health, and ask for support if they need it. We are supporing mental health through our charity partnerships.
We all have times when we feel bad. Most of the time these feelings pass, but sometimes, they can develop into something more serious. Remember, help is at hand. Colleagues can contact the 24/7 First Class Support helpline by calling 0800 6888 777 to access counselling, practical help and legal advice.
Our Feeling First Class website has useful advice and content (use the code FFC1 to register) including the mental health eLearning ‘Because Healthy Minds Matter’.
Click here to see the full range of support available to you.
