The autumn “blahs”

If you are finding yourself waking up a bit down in the dumps, you could be experiencing the autumn “blahs”.

People who experience winter depression will actually start to see signs of it at the beginning of autumn, says Dr Norman Rosenthal, the psychiatrist behind seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It is down to the lack of light – as our days get shorter and we see less sunshine, our mood is affected.

If you know what symptoms to look out for, you will be able to cope with the changes more effectively.

Symptoms can include:

• wanting more sleep
• feeling irritable
• gaining weight
• craving sugary, starchy foods
• lacking motivation.

We do however have three tips to help you stay positive throughout autumn:

Put your bedside lamp on a timer

If you have a lamp with a timer, set it to come on around 30 minutes before you usually wake up, your brain will get a bit of a kick-start. The light will allow you to wake up peacefully and feel refreshed, rather than fumbling for your clothes in the dark.

Take a walk outside

We know it’s getting colder, but despite the dropping temperatures, taking a walk in autumn has its benefits. Walking for as little as 20 to 30 minutes daily can help you absorb as much sunlight as possible before winter hits. Try to walk to work or get off the bus a few stops earlier to make the most of the fresh, morning sunshine.

Welcome light into your home or office

Being at one with nature can instantly lift your mood. With the days getting darker, it is not a good idea to keep your blinds shut! Welcome in the little bit of daylight autumn gives us by keeping the windows clean, trimming any foliage that may have overgrown in the summer months and maybe even add a new pot plant to your desk.