What Is SAD and How to Combat It

There are many reasons to get excited about Autumn, hello pumpkin lattes, cosy jumpers, and snuggly nights in! Yet the change in season can be tough if you suffer from (SAD) seasonal affective disorder.

What is SAD?

SAD, short for Seasonal Affective Disorder and sometimes called ‘winter depression,’ affects around three in every hundred UK adults each year. It tends to creep in as the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes scarce. Scientists still debate the exact cause, but most agree that seasonal changes can disrupt your body’s circadian rhythm — your natural 24-hour clock that decides when you feel sleepy, hungry, or full of energy. When that rhythm falls out of sync, your mood and motivation can take a dip too. If you’ve been feeling more tired, low, or craving comfort during the darker months, you might be experiencing signs of S.A.D. The good news? Simple lifestyle tweaks like seeking natural light, keeping a steady sleep routine, and surrounding yourself with warmth and calm can help lift your spirits through the winter season.

What are the symptoms of SAD?

1. Increased appetite

Reaching for the cake more than usual? It might be more than your sweet tooth. Craving heavy carbs is a common symptom of seasonal affective disorder. This is due to disrupted hormone levels of melatonin and serotonin, which control your appetite.

2. Low mood

Can’t seem to shake the funk? You are not alone. With less sunlight and disrupted serotonin levels, those suffering from seasonal affective disorder experience a consistently flat, low mood during the winter months.

3. Can’t concentrate

Been staring at the screen for an hour and got nothing done? Don’t worry, this is a common symptom of seasonal affective disorder. One reason is that your sleep patterns are out of sync. Without regular, deep sleep, your brain finds it harder to function…no matter how many cups of coffee you drink!

4. Extra sleepy

Speaking of sleep, are you finding you’re nodding off more than usual? Those darker mornings are to blame. Melatonin, which makes you feel sleepy, responds to darkness. This is why eye masks are a great way to help you get so sleep. In winter, melatonin production increases. If you’re experiencing SAD, you can feel constantly tired throughout the day.

5. Less joy

Life feels less sparkly when you are suffering from SAD If you have lost the bounce in your step, the whistle in your walk, and are regularly waking up without your smile, don’t worry! We have some natural ways to help you embrace Autumn and feel better.

Natural mood boosters to ease SAD

1. Let the light in

Make the most of the reduced sunlight by getting outside as much as you can throughout the day. Wrap up warm and take yourself to the park. Autumn is a beautiful time of year. Crunchy golden leaves, orange skies, and crisp fresh air get out there and enjoy it.

Make a daily stroll part of your routine- doctor’s orders.

2. Indulge in a bubble bath

Upping your self-care routine is a beauty-boosting way to combat seasonal affective disorder. Sink into a hot bath of scrummy bubbles with your favourite candle. Then wrap up in one of our fluffy towels and pop on your PJs!

Self-care is essential… every single day.

3. Nature therapy

It can be tough to get outside when it’s cold and dark, so why not bring the outside in? House plants, flowers, and natural products are an easy way to boost your well-being without leaving the sofa. We love nature, which is why our award-winning bedding and homeware are made with wonder plant bamboo.

We think bamboo is pretty wonderful… just like you.

4. Is it bedtime yet?

Sticking to a regular sleeping pattern is a dreamy way to ease symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Tuck in at the same time every night and try not to press snooze… even on the weekends. Make bedtime the best time with our oh-so-soft bamboo bedding.

Slip on a slinky bamboo eye mask and make the most of every wink.

5. End the day on a sweet note

(Not the cake!) Make a note to yourself at the end of each day of all the things you have to be grateful for. Research has long shown the mood-boosting magic of gratitude. Give it a go…it will help you relish your experiences and bring a sense of awe to your day. The perfect way to combat seasonal affective disorder.

Gratitude is the best attitude!

Above all be kind to yourself, it’s ok to not feel like a superhero every day. Enjoy cosy nights at home and take it easy. Sunshine is a state of mind and just like summer, with a little TLC….your smile will be back!