As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, many people notice a shift in their energy and mood. For some, this can be more than a temporary dip and becomes a recurring challenge each year. This condition, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that typically appears during the autumn and winter months when sunlight is scarce. The reduced daylight can have a profound effect on our body’s internal clock and brain chemistry, influencing mood, sleep, and motivation. Understanding the nature of seasonal affective disorder can be an important step in recognising that what you’re experiencing is real and treatable. At Angsana Psychology, we offer SAD counselling and therapy for people struggling this winter.
People living with SAD often describe feeling persistently low, fatigued, or withdrawn during the colder months. Everyday tasks can feel harder to manage, and activities that usually bring joy may seem less appealing. The lack of natural light can disrupt the production of serotonin and melatonin, chemicals that regulate mood and sleep, leading to difficulties with concentration, energy, and emotional balance. For many in the UK, where winters are long and dark, these changes can have a particularly strong impact on wellbeing. Recognising these symptoms early allows individuals to take steps towards getting the right support, including SAD counselling or therapy tailored to their needs.
At Angsana Psychology, we offer evidence-based therapy for seasonal affective disorder designed to help you understand and manage these patterns more effectively. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), for instance, is often used to address the negative thought cycles that can accompany SAD. By working together to identify unhelpful thinking habits and replacing them with more balanced perspectives, individuals can begin to regain a sense of control and hope. Therapy can also help you explore lifestyle strategies that complement treatment, such as creating light-rich environments, maintaining structure, and reconnecting with meaningful activities.
While it can be tempting to dismiss SAD as simply “winter blues”, it’s important to recognise that it’s a legitimate mental health condition that deserves care and understanding. With professional guidance and the right therapeutic approach, recovery is entirely possible.
If you think you may be experiencing SAD and would like to talk to someone about how therapy could help, Angsana Psychology in Norwich offers confidential and compassionate support. Get in touch today to book a consultation and take the first step towards brighter days ahead. Call 07582 326998 or email hello@angsanapsychology.com.
