In focus: It’s a sad SAD situation but therapies can help

Darker evenings, colder weather and plans for Christmas will be high on the list of small talk topics for patients and practitioners this November.

Another more chilling conversation point might also be seasonal affective disorder (SAD), an unwelcome side effect of getting less natural sunlight also referred to as the ‘winter blues’.

SAD has moved further into the public consciousness, with recognised therapies now including light therapy. Products flooding the market have included SAD table lamps, alarm clocks and futuristic glasses. In addition to light therapy, lens tints have also been suggested to help patients suffering from SAD.

According to SAD.org, only 10% of the UK population now works outdoors, down from a figure closer to three-quarters two centuries ago. In addition, it noted that working days were getting longer and resulting in ‘a dramatic increase in light deficiency symptoms’ for some patients who struggle to maintain their circadian rhythms and subsequent mood.