Suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder is normal but can be incredibly hard

Many of us will start to feel lower or suffer from mental health issues like depression or anxiety as the winter progresses.

Some will struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder but what exactly is it?

According to medical experts, people will start to experience the main signs of SAD at the end of autumn and into the winter.

SAD is a type of depression that is connected to the changing of the seasons.

You may start to experience a loss in energy and bouts of low mood that aren't normal for you.

The main symptoms of SAD include:

• Feeling listless, sad, or down most of the day, nearly every day
• Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Having low energy and feeling sluggish
• Having problems with sleeping too much
• Experiencing carbohydrate cravings, overeating, and weight gain
• Having difficulty concentrating
• Feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty
• Having thoughts of not wanting to live

Seeking professional help is something worth considering if you're displaying signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder.

It's important to remind yourself that getting mental health help is nothing to be ashamed of and something that will only ever help you feel better.

You should consider speaking to your GP if you're displaying any of the symptoms, whether they're mild or severe because every person deserves the right mental health care.

It's something we should all try to prioritise during the winter months, but it's also not as accessible as it should be in Ireland.

That's why you should also turn to charities and helplines if you are suffering because support is out there.

Mental Health Support:

• Aware - 1800 80 48 48
• Pieta House - 1800 247 247
• Turn2me - www.turn2me.ie
• Women’s Aid - 1800341900
• Text About It - Text HELLO to 50808 for free

Do not lose hope if you're suffering from mental health issues this winter. There is so much more support out there when you realise so try and lean on your loved ones and professionals and they will help you get through these difficult times.

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