Latest news with #SeasonalAffectiveDisorder
The Sun
02-08-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Does summer make you sad? Here's why seasonal changes can trigger the blues
AS her daughter played happily in a paddling pool as a toddler, Heidi Ellert-McDermott blinked back tears. 'Everyone seemed to be having such a lovely time and was glowing in the sunshine,' she recalls, 'but I was feeling really low and like I just wanted it to cloud over.' 5 5 5 The speech writer, from Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucs, is not alone in hating the summer months. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that affects one in 20 people in the UK. While traditionally associated with dark winters, 'reverse SAD' affects ten per cent of those with the condition. Clinical psychologist Dr Andrea Pickering, fellow of the British Psychological Society and clinical director at Clinical Partners, explains: 'It is triggered by seasonal changes, most commonly during winter but sometimes in summer. 'Blackout blinds' 'Like other forms of depression, it's linked to chemical changes in the brain, particularly involving serotonin which regulates mood, and melatonin which controls sleep. 'In winter, less sunlight leads to lower serotonin levels and increased melatonin production. 'In summer, the brain can become overstimulated by too much sunlight or heat, which can disrupt sleep cycles and leave people feeling agitated, anxious and unbalanced. 'So while the triggers are seasonal, the brain's response is similar to depression, just with different timing.' Heidi, 48, originally from Scotland, says her symptoms started around 2007. She adds: 'I don't remember having the extreme dislike of summer as a child or in my twenties, it kicked in in my mid-thirties. What is Seasonal Affective Disorder? 'I've felt it long enough that my friends don't expect me to dance at a festival or 'just come for an hour' to a roasting hot barbecue any more. 'I use blackout blinds, I've got fans in every room, I sleep with ice packs in my socks and I only venture out in the sunshine when I absolutely have to.' GP Dr Rosie Khan is seeing an increasing number of patients with reverse SAD. She says: 'I see a spike each year, especially in patients already living with anxiety or mood disorders. 'These individuals often report feeling overwhelmed, agitated and unusually fatigued during the warmer months. The longer days, intense heat and social pressure of summer can be just as challenging as winter.' Lisa Ventura, 51, from Worcester, has had reverse SAD symptoms since she was a child. She says: 'I've been to my GP plenty of times over the years but every time I've been told to just eat some ice cream, drink more water and stay indoors. 'None of this helps. In recent years it has been dismissed as the menopause, even though I've never had other symptoms. 'Cooped up' 'It feels like doctors think I'm being dramatic, just as my teachers thought at school.' There are guidelines for treatment of the condition, though. Dr Khan says: 'The NHS recommends a combination of approaches, depending on the severity of symptoms. 'This includes self-help techniques, talking therapies and sometimes medication. 'Lifestyle measures, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying cool and managing screen time can make a big difference, too.' Lisa, who works as a cyber security expert, says the impact on her life has been huge. 'Every arrangement I make in the summer has to be caveated with 'as long as it isn't too hot' — especially if the temperature goes above 25C,' she says. 'I couldn't attend my cousin's fiance's 50th birthday party at the end of June as it was a barbecue in 30C heat. There was no way I could sit outside even for a few minutes. 'I'm a huge Black Sabbath fan and I desperately wanted to go to their final concert at Villa Park but my heart sank when I saw it was in July because I knew I wouldn't be able to go if it was hot. 5 5 'I also recently started an outdoor yoga class but have had to miss the first three sessions because of the heatwaves. 'I hate being cooped up at home but I have no other choice.' Dr Pickering says it might not be as common as anxiety, which affects eight million people in the UK, but SAD is 'very real' for those impacted and the symptoms should not be ignored. 'It often shows up as low mood, anxiety or irritability during late spring and summer,' she says. 'People might struggle to sleep, feel restless or panicky, lose their appetite or avoid socialising and going outside. 'It can feel like you're out of sync with others who seem to enjoy the season. 'If these symptoms start to affect your daily life, it's worth speaking to a GP or mental health professional.' Heidi, who says she spends the summer months counting down the days until the clocks go back, wishes more people understood reverse SAD. 'I've googled 'Is hating summer a personality flaw?',' she says. 'I get irritable and start irrationally resenting people for being cheerful in shorts. 'It's like I'm the only person not enjoying the 'best time of year'. It's like being the designated driver at a month-long party. 'I've braved a couple of hot holidays but I can't be more than five metres from a pool or the sea. 'Red flag' 'Rain calms me and fog delights me but disliking summer doesn't mean I'm joyless. I just like my joy chilled — and preferably set to the sound of rain on my windows.' Dr Khan says anyone can be affected by SAD but it is more common in women and usually begins in young adulthood. 'People with a family history of depression or other mood disorders may also be more susceptible,' she adds. 'Those who are highly sensitive to changes in light, temperature or routine, or shift workers or people with anxiety can be more vulnerable, too.' If a dislike of summer starts affecting work or relationships, it could be time to seek help. 'We all have seasonal preferences but when your discomfort in summer becomes emotionally and physically disabling, that's a red flag,' Dr Pickering says. 'Don't dismiss it. Speak to your GP or a mental health professional. Practical lifestyle changes to regulate light and temperature can really help. 'Try using blackout curtains, sticking to a regular sleep routine and limiting exposure to bright light if that's a trigger. 'Most importantly, know that you're not alone and professional help is available.'
News24
30-07-2025
- Health
- News24
Don't ignore the link between sleep and mental health
__________________________________________________________________ Your body is just like a car; it needs the rest and maintenance it deserves to perform at the best ability. Many can tell firsthand that when they don't get enough sleep it affects their mental state – after all, there's a reason why the saying 'you woke up on the wrong side of the bed' comes up when one is in a bad mood. South Africans are the earliest risers in the world, with local data shows that the average person wakes up at 06:24, with many waking up even earlier to catch public transport and make it to their jobs. According to Dr Alison Bentley, a medical doctor at the Restonic Ezintsha Sleep Clinic in Johannesburg, the relationship between sleep and mental health is quite complex but worth understanding to improve both. 'Poor sleep doesn't just make you tired; it affects your mood, memory, focus and self-confidence, and can increase your risk of developing depression and anxiety for years to come,' Dr Alison says. Sleep and mental health is often considered as a 'chicken and egg' situation, where anxiety and depression can cause sleep disruptions, while sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnoea can trigger or worsen mental health issues. Sleep and the winter blues There's a reason why you might feel a bit off when below zero temperatures, grey skies, rain and winter chills roll around. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a clinically recognised form of depression linked to limited sun exposure which can disrupt your body's internal clock, affect serotonin and melatonin levels and throw off your sleep patterns. 'Mental health is a key component of your overall wellness, yet it's often neglected, especially during busy, high-pressure periods,' says Dr Themba Hadebe, clinical executive at Bonitas medical aid. 'Recognising the signs of SAD early is essential because the sooner you acknowledge it, the sooner you can take steps to manage it.' Sleep disorders and how to treat them Insomnia Dr Alison explains that insomnia, which is defined as getting too little sleep to function properly, is not a one-size-fits-all condition. While sleeping tablets may help in the short term, they don't solve the root of the problem. For long-term improvement, Dr Bentley recommends Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) – a proven, non-medication-based programme that addresses unhelpful sleep habits, thoughts and behaviours. 'There are free CBTI apps available and seeing a trained professional can be life-changing,' she says. Sleep apnoea and restless legs Dr Alison highlights that restless legs syndrome and sleep apnoea – a condition where breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep – can rob the body of deep, restorative sleep and leave people exhausted, irritable and vulnerable to depression. 'In men, sleep apnoea is a common but often missed cause of midlife depression,' she says. 'If you're waking up tired despite getting a full night's sleep, it may be time to get checked. A simple questionnaire or overnight sleep study can make all the difference.' Low iron could be the issue There is a fundamental link between anxiety, depression and disruptive sleep patterns and low iron, explains anaemia-awareness advocate and head of the Cape Town Infusion Centre Sister Karin Davidson. Even very heavy menstrual cycles can affect your iron levels. Iron is an essential component in the production of serotonin – your brain's 'happy chemical', explains Sister Davidson. 'When iron levels are low, the body struggles to produce adequate serotonin, which directly impacts mood, sleep patterns and overall sense of wellbeing. Low iron and anaemia fundamentally alter how young women experience life – and when you're in the prime of your life, that's a travesty.' Don't be afraid to reach out to a doctor to get your iron levels checked and explore the benefits of iron supplements and infusions.
News24
17-07-2025
- Health
- News24
In need of a sunshine fix? Five fast ways to shake off that winter slump
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), often triggered in winter due to reduced sunlight, can affect mood, sleep, and energy levels. Managing SAD involves prioritising sunlight exposure, staying physically active, and eating nutrient-rich foods. Talking to trusted people or professionals about your feelings helps normalise mental health conversations and provides support. Winter's grip on South Africa is finally loosening, but not without leaving its mark. After weeks of icy-cold mornings, relentless sniffles, and days that seem to end before they've begun, the season's lingering chill can weigh heavier than just the cold. For many, this time of year brings more than just a longing for summer; it ushers in a fog of fatigue, low mood, and an overwhelming sense of inertia. If you've been dismissing these feelings as just another case of 'winter blues,' it might be time to reconsider. What feels like a seasonal or mid-year slump could actually be seasonal affective disorder (SAD)—a clinically recognised form of depression tied to winter's dwindling sunlight. As the end of winter nears, the lack of sunshine may have disrupted more than just your weekend plans. Reduced daylight can throw off your body's internal clock, sap serotonin levels, and leave you battling exhaustion, cravings, and even social withdrawal. The good news? You're not alone—and there are ways to fight back before spring arrives. Dr Themba Hadebe, Bonitas clinical executive, explains why SAD is more than just a passing mood and how small, intentional steps can help you reclaim your energy and well-being as the season turns. Believe it or not, sunshine - or the lack thereof may be leading to depression. 'SAD is more than feeling 'a bit off' when the sun disappears behind grey skies. It's a clinically recognised form of depression linked to reduced sunlight exposure, which can disrupt your body's internal clock (circadian rhythm), affect serotonin and melatonin levels, and ultimately throw off your mood and sleep patterns,' shares Hadebe. Recognising the difference between winter blues and SAD is the first step to managing the condition. Who is most likely to experience SAD? According to the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH), women and young adults are most likely to experience SAD during the winter months. Those with a family history of SAD or other mood disorders are at greater risk. Common symptoms of SAD include: Persistent low mood or sadness Fatigue or lack of energy despite sufficient sleep Difficulty concentrating Cravings for carbohydrates or weight gain Social withdrawal Understanding and managing SAD According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), approximately 2% to 3% of South Africans may experience the disorder. An additional 15% of the population may experience a less severe form. Recognising the signs of SAD early is essential, shares Hadebe, who also highlighted these pointers for making it through this time: More sunlight As simple as it sounds, making time for natural light, even on cold or cloudy days, can significantly boost your mood. Sit near a sunny window, go for a midday walk, or consider using light therapy lamps that mimic sunlight and support your body's internal clock. Stay active The World Health Organisation explains that regular physical activity provides significant physical and mental health benefits. In adults, physical activity contributes to preventing and managing noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes, reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhances brain health, and can improve overall well-being. Expanding on this, Hadebe shares, 'Even a 15-minute stretch, dance break, or walk around the block can help to lift your energy and shift your mindset. Eating for comfort - and health Research shows that low levels of vitamin D, which naturally drop during winter, are closely linked to symptoms of depression. AFDA registered dietitian Mpho Tshukudu suggests nourishing your body with seasonal, nutrient-rich foods. 'Produce such as pumpkin, amadumbe, carrots, cabbage, spinach, and legumes are packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, fibre, antioxidants, and polyphenols to support your immune system and mood,' she advises. Call a friend In South Africa, discussing mental health struggles is often stigmatised. However, opening up can provide clarity and strengthen mental health conversations. Hadebe encourages, 'Talk to someone you trust. Whether it's a psychologist, a friend, or a support group, sharing your feelings is an empowering first step.'
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
Why rain might be the secret to a happier, healthier you
Rainy days, mainly carry a reputation for gloom, but for many people, they offer unexpected comfort. The gentle rhythm of falling rain, the cool breeze, and that familiar earthy scent can bring a sense of calm we didn't know we needed. While we may be tempted to stay indoors and label the day as dreary, rain can actually help us slow down and reflect. Science shows that rain affects our mood in real, measurable ways—easing stress, improving focus, and even promoting better sleep. Feeling calm after rain? Thank negative ions If you are also one of those who step outside after a rainfall and feel instantly refreshed, that uplifting sensation may be thanks to negative ions, which are tiny, invisible particles released when raindrops collide with hard surfaces like soil or pavement. According to Dr. Niek Buurma , a chemistry researcher at Cardiff University, these ions are formed when falling water picks up extra electrons, which are then transferred to oxygen molecules in the air. 'There are clear indications that people feel more positive after inhaling negative ions,' says Dr. Buurma. Hde further says that they may help reduce stress, lift mood, and increase energy levels, mainly in natural environments like waterfalls, oceans, or rainstorms. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Although the exact reason is still uner research, studies have suggested that negative ions may mimic the effects of light therapy, commonly used to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). They're believed to stimulate serotonin production in the brain, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation and emotional balance. This could explain why many people feel calmer, clearer, and more mentally 'reset' after a storm passes. So next time you're caught in the rain, take a deep breath—it might just be nature's version of a mental recharge. That earthy rain smell? Here's why it makes you feel good Almost everybody loves that familiar, earthy smell that fills the air after a rainfall. It's called petrichor—a term coined in 1964 by Australian researchers Isabel Joy Bear and R.G. Thomas. This scent arises when raindrops hit dry soil, releasing compounds like geosmin, a molecule produced by soil-dwelling bacteria such as Streptomyces. Geosmin is incredibly potent—even small traces are enough for the human nose to detect it. While there is limited clinical research on the direct psychological effects of petrichor, scholars suggest its scent can trigger relaxation, positive memories, and a sense of calm. According to Dr. Iain Fraser , a chemist at the UK's Natural Environment Research Council, petrichor often evokes nostalgia and emotional warmth, possibly because our brains associate the smell with the comfort of rain, greenery, and change. In a 2020 study published in Frontiers in Psychology , researchers highlighted how smells linked to nature (like rain, soil, and grass) can reduce stress by activating the brain's limbic system—the part responsible for emotion and memory. This supports why many people instinctively feel more at peace or 'refreshed' after smelling rain-washed air. So while petrichor may not yet be a certified therapy, it certainly acts like a natural form of aromatherapy, soothing the senses and uplifting the spirit—especially when we need a quiet moment of connection with nature. How rain sounds help your brain relax, according to science Listening to the sound of rain isn't just calming, it can actually change the way your brain works. A scientific study using EEG (brainwave analysis) found that rain sounds can increase something called alpha wave activity in the brain. These alpha waves are linked to a relaxed, peaceful state of mind, helping you feel less anxious or stressed. According to researchers, when people listened to rain and water sounds—especially in hot, humid environments—their brains showed more alpha wave activity. This means the rain sounds helped move their brains out of high-alert 'fight-or-flight' mode and into a more mindful and calm state. The researchers used a special technique called Fourier transform to break down the sound frequencies and found that natural rain and water sounds have patterns that actually soothe the brain. Why rain helps you think clearer and feel calmer The gentle sound of rainfall is more than just soothing—it actually activates relaxation pathways in the brain, helping to lower stress hormones like cortisol and support emotional balance. That's why rain sounds are so popular in mindfulness, meditation, and bedtime routines. But there's more: a fascinating study published in Psychology of Music explored how different background sounds—including rain—affect our ability to focus on tasks like solving maths problems. Researchers found that when participants had to solve difficult arithmetic problems, silence made them slower and less accurate, while rain sounds helped boost their focus and performance. Interestingly, introverts were generally faster than extroverts—except when it rained. The sound of heavy rain helped extroverts perform just as quickly, likely because the steady rhythm increased mental alertness without being distracting Make rain part of your self-care routine Play recordings of rain during focus work, meditation, or sleep. Step outside during a light drizzle and soak in the air and quiet. Open a window and breathe deeply. Let the natural pink noise relax you. Use rainy days to reflect, write, or rest, embracing the cozy slowdown. Rainy days may seem dreary, but science says they're anything but. From negative ions and calming sounds to fresh air and mindful immersion, rain is a natural mental-health ally. Also Read: Harvard experts share 10 amazing benefits of swimming lessons for kids
NDTV
07-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Explained: What Is Heat Anxiety And Why Is It On The Rise In India
"Heat anxiety" refers to worry, discomfort or apprehension triggered by hot weather or high temperatures. It is also known as "heat stress" or "heat-related anxiety". Exposure to long durations of heat results in putting the human body in a stressful state. This activates the body's fight-or-flight response, resulting in increased adrenaline and cortisol levels, which trigger anxiety, agitation, mood swings, and disrupt sleep patterns," Padma Shri Dr Mukesh Batra, Founder-Chairman Emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare, told NDTV. The clinics have seen more than a hundred psychiatric cases, mainly anxiety and mood disorders in young adults during the 2025 heatwave, Dr Batra added. What are the symptoms of heat anxiety? Sweating, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or nausea because of heat are some of the physical symptoms. Feeling overwhelmed, irritable, or anxious when exposed to hot environments can lead to some emotional distress. People start avoiding outdoor activities or social events due to the fear of heat-related discomfort. "People with existing mental health conditions like anxiety or depression may feel worse during extremely hot weather," Dr Harini Atturu, Senior Psychiatrist, CARE Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad, told NDTV. "Even those without any history of mental illness may start to feel emotionally low or stressed." Just like cold and gloomy weather can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in some people, long periods of harsh summer heat can also lead to emotional and mental health challenges. "Complicating the situation further, dehydration and heat exhaustion can produce symptoms that mirror or amplify anxiety disorders, creating a dangerous cycle where physical and mental health deteriorate simultaneously," Dr Kunal Kumar, Senior Consultant, Psychiatry, Sharda Care Healthcity, told NDTV. Why is heat anxiety on the rise in India? A study, published in March 2025, highlighted how heat effects on mental health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) could vary from effects found in Western or high-income countries. Most LMICs lie in the Global South, and their populations are exposed not only to on average hotter but also more humid climatic conditions. The mental disorders have doubled since 1990 in India, with one in seven Indians suffering from mental illnesses, the study noted. The care for mental health is limited in India, and there's a treatment gap of 80% for common mental disorders. A Lancet study projects a 23% rise in India's mental illness burden by 2025, linking it to climate-related stress. The Journal of Affective Disorders recently found that heat waves significantly worsen mental health among rural students. "During the 2025 UP heatwave, hospitals saw 100-150 daily psychiatric cases, highlighting the urgent mental toll of rising temperatures," Dr Batra said. "Among urban and semi-urban populations exposed to sustained heat stress during summer, there is a clear rise in anxiety-like episodes, psychosomatic complaints, and mood dysregulation." Dr Kumar added that the crisis is acute in urban environments, where densely populated cities trap heat and limit access to cooling spaces. He said that the "heat island effect" intensifies psychological strain on residents, creating what researchers describe as a "perfect storm for mental health challenges". As per Dr Batra, adolescents and young adults are vulnerable because of their increased hormonal effects, digital overstimulation, academic pressures and social disconnection, all of which worsen the "psychological effects" of heat. Children and the elderly are also affected due to their decreased ability to control body temperature, and the issue could change into grave mental health matters if not managed carefully. "Mental health and weather are closely linked. As our climate continues to change, we need to start recognising the emotional impact of extreme seasons, not just the physical effects," Dr Atturu said. As climate change continues to drive temperature extremes across the region, addressing heat anxiety represents a crucial intersection of public health and mental wellness that demands immediate attention from both healthcare providers and policymakers.
