Cheer up SAD-y

By Stephanie Holliday

SEASONAL Affective Disorder (SAD) is a mental health condition where people who have a normal mood for most of the year experience depressive symptoms in winter.

Up to 10 percent of the population are estimated to experience persistent low mood over the colder months, which can gravely affect their daily lives.

Wintery conditions often mean that we have reduced opportunities to interact with the community as the cold keeps us in indoor spaces and reluctant to leave our warm homes.

People experiencing SAD may sleep more than usual, and they may have difficulty waking up in the morning. In addition, they may suffer from poor concentration and have little energy. Personal relationships may be affected as well, with people spending less time with family and friends.

The condition can also affect your appetite with people indulging more comfort foods, which in turn can also affect one’s mood.

However, there are a number of things you can do to pick yourself up:

• Ensure you’re getting adequate exercise, enough fluids and mental stimulation to elevate your mood

• Seek out warm opportunities for social interaction, invite friends and family over for a movie night, or catch up with friends at a café

WHAT IS A COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING HUB?

The new Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub in the Goulburn Valley provides mental health and wellbeing services and support to people of all ages. The pandemic and other recent natural disasters such as bushfires, drought and flood, have affected everyone in different ways and it is important to take care of your mental health and know that help is available near you.

If you are having a difficult time or feeling overwhelmed, you can access free and flexible support via a community Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub.

WHO CAN USE THE SERVICES?

People of all ages with new or existing mental health challenges can utilise services at a Hub. Services are also available to family members and carers. Referrals can be informal and all services are free of charge.

You can access support where and when it suits you. You can visit a Hub in person, have someone visit you at home, meet in a cafe or park, or chat over the phone. Call 5822 8600 to make an appointment.

• Get as much sunlight as possible, even if it is just sitting at the window of a sunny morning

• Before you know it, we’ll be back to complaining about those 40-degree days we’re privy to here in the GV.