How to help tackle SAD this winter

With one in 15 people in the UK experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD), winter can be a tricky time to get through. SAD is a mood disorder that affects people at the same time each year, usually starting as days become darker, ending in spring as more light returns.

SAD is more common in women, young people, and those who live far from the equator, as there are more extreme changes in seasons, and symptoms include feeling depressed and lethargic, sleeping too much or insomnia, as well as changes in appetite and feeling agitated or unable to focus.

In particular, there is a link between SAD and sleep problems, with studies showing the body’s circadian rhythm – or sleep/wake cycle – is largely dependent on sunlight. As light decreases during winter, this affects serotonin and melatonin production, which influence sleep and mood. Vitamin D also contributes to serotonin production, and we get less of this during the winter.

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Hypersomnia (sleeping too much) is common in those with SAD, yet research has shown the quality of their' sleep is poor, with sufferers spending less time in deep sleep and more in REM. Poor sleep can worsen SAD symptoms such as depression, anxiety and inability to concentrate, leading to a vicious circle for sufferers.

But help is at hand, as improving sleep can have a big effect on symptoms. Research has shown the right mattress can positively affect sleep quality, reduce pain and discomfort and lower stress levels – and that better sleep is achieved quickly with a good mattress, and continues improving over time.

That’s why investing in a mattress that provides the right support, such as those from TEMPUR, is so important. Originally designed by NASA in the Seventies for astronauts during take-off, TEMPUR material distributes weight and pressure evenly, giving a weightless feeling.

Unlike normal memory foam, TEMPUR absorbs and distributes pressure, minimising disturbance from motion transfer. And with the option of a 100-night trial and 10-year mattress guarantee – plus award-winning pillows – TEMPUR is rated number one mattress brand in the UK for customer satisfaction.

Other lifestyle tweaks can help combat SAD symptoms. These include exposure to natural light outdoors, sitting near windows when indoors, making homes light and airy, exercising (housework, gardening and walking are all effective), and eating healthily. Some people also find vitamin B12 or vitamin D supplements help, or that light therapy has eased symptoms.

So, with better quality sleep sorted, you could be on your way to improving your symptoms.

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