We are encouraging staff, service users and the public to speak up, talk to friends, family and ask for support as the clocks go back this weekend.
Medical professionals have noticed a pattern linked to increased diagnosis of depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) following daylight saving time. We are using the clocks going back as an opportunity to promote mental health support, and are offering hints and tips that may help people feel less isolated and lonely.
If you suffer from SAD the lack of sunlight can cause a problem with certain chemicals in the brain which prevents the hypothalamus working properly. The lack of light is thought to affect the production of the hormone melatonin and the production of the hormone serotonin, which can both effect your moods. Younger people are more at risk from developing SAD, a family history of SAD or other forms of depression increases the risk.
People naturally see less sunlight during the winter months, on average the amount of daylight decreases to six and a half hours, compared to 18 hours during the height of summer.
Emma Wood, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist from our Talking Therapies service commented:
“We recognise when the clocks go back this can be a difficult transition for many people and can bring mental health worries to the surface. The lack of sunlight impacts hormone levels leaving some people experiencing feelings of depression which they might not experience at other times of the year.
There are things we can all do to help combat those feelings:
Even though it may be cold or wet outside, wrap up warm and take a walk outside during day light hours, even if you can only manage 10 minutes taking the time to have a break from your daily routine to experience some fresh air and natural day light will help.
Make time for a conversation with a friend and talk about how you are both feeling as sharing your feelings will make you feel less alone.
Check in with your neighbours, friends and family members, especially if you know they live alone and might be spending prolonged periods of time indoors.”
Write a gratitude list and list three things to be thankful for each day. Stick the list up on your fridge so you can clearly see it and refer back to it if you need reassurance.
Bringing daylight into your home is really important through the winter months, make sure you open all your curtains and blinds every day and if possible position yourself near a window as much as you can.
Most importantly ask for help if you need it. Our talking therapies service is available to adults over the age of 16 who are looking for support with a common mental health problem, we don’t have a typical service user as mental health can affect everyone at any time.”
NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Talking Therapies, previously known as Minds Matter, is a psychological therapy service offering a range of free talking therapies either face to face, online or by telephone. Our psychological therapies are suitable for individuals struggling with common mental health problems, such as anxiety disorders and depression.
Emma continues:
“Our teams are made up of psychological wellbeing practitioners (PWP), cognitive behavioural therapists (CBT), counsellors, team leaders, and our supportive admin staff. A practitioner will always discuss the best options available for you during your initial telephone assessment.
Your GP can refer you to our service or you can self-refer online, all the contact details and self-referral form can be found on the LSCft website.
Mental health support is available across Lancashire and South Cumbria."
