Many people feel down in the winter because the days are shorter and sunlight levels are low. In severe cases this can lead to depression and a condition called SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder.
This affects about 7 per cent of people in the UK and can be severely disabling. It usually disappears in spring, only to return again the next autumn.
If you’re affected, the recommended treatment to try first is a light box. You have to use it daily in autumn and winter until symptoms fade. If you are severely affected, you may need to ask your GP for antidepressants.
Working from home can be a little depressing and you may feel isolated which could be hard to take if you have SAD too. Try having a routine to your day and include a walk at lunchtime when light levels are a bit higher. It’s not just the light that helps – exercise is good too so include any other exercise you enjoy in your daily programme.
Consider light therapy too. Some light box manufacturers will let you try out one of their products before committing yourself, often for a month.
You should know within a few days if it’s effective for you. The advantage of working from home is that there’s no one to see you using the light box or try to stop you using it. You can have it on your desk so that the light falls directly onto your eyes and use it whenever you feel the need.
If you need extra help, see your GP. You may need antidepressants or perhaps a referral for psychotherapy, counselling or other complementary therapy.
Full details of SAD treatment, where to obtain it and how to use it are contained in the SADA Information Pack available from www.sada.org.uk
