With the promise of spring around the corner the last few months of winter can feel difficult to get through.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern.
SAD is sometimes known as “winter depression” because the symptoms are usually more apparent and more severe during the winter.
A few people with SAD may have symptoms during the summer and feel better during the winter.
Symptoms of SAD
Symptoms of SAD can include:
- feeling listless, sad or down most of the day, nearly every day.
- a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
- irritability
- feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
- feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day
- sleeping for longer than normal and finding it hard to get up in the morning
- craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
- difficulty concentrating
For some people, these symptoms can be severe and have a significant impact on their day-to-day activities.
Winter Self-Soothe Box
We’ve put together some ideas for you to add to your own self-soothe box to help you get through the winter months – or indeed any time you are going through a difficult time. Any box will do to add your self-soothe items. An old shoe box is perfect – you can even decorate it to a design that is personal to you.
Visit our ‘Getting Help‘ page if you need further support with your mental health.