Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that often occurs at the same time each year, typically in the autumn and winter.

SAD, also known as Seasonal Depression, can have an impact on your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels, affecting all aspects of your life: from your relationships and social life to work, school, and your sense of self-worth.

SAD obviously also impacts us gamers, potentially affecting our mood, energy levels, and overall performance during the darker months. Given the long hours spent indoors and often irregular sleep schedules, recognizing and addressing the symptoms of SAD can be crucial for maintaining mental well-being and optimal gameplay.

Key symptoms of SAD can include:

• Depression.
• Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, guilt, anxiety and apathy.
• Overeating and weight gain.
• Sleep problems (having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much).
• Having difficulties carrying out daily tasks.
• Change of appetite, notably craving sugary and starchy foods.
• Tension and stress.
• Unexplained aches and pains.
• Feeling low and unsociable.

Tips to help with seasonal affective disorder.

Sunlight and walking:

Personally, I find that walking in sunlight, boosts my positive emotions and makes me happier. Just by walking, and taking in your surroundings and breathing in the fresh air, can help with your mental health.

But exposure to sunlight actually releases serotonin in the brain. Serotonin boosts a person’s mood. Lack of sunlight can lead to a lack of serotonin; increasing the chance of feeling depressed, or suffering from SAD.

Create a routine and plan your days:

It helps me to plan my days and make a routine. That way I can feel positive and motivated for the day ahead.

It doesn’t have to be anything big: just little things to help you during the day. Like when to get work done. Or a reminder during the day. Even small stuff, like waking up earlier, or making your bed in the morning can make you feel more positive.

Routines can be enjoyable and fulfilling; A routine can help you manage stress more effectively, and let you enjoy your day.

Stop scrolling in the morning:

Scrolling through social media in the morning can be distracting and eat up your time. It can also make you want to lay in bed all day. Personally, it makes me have zero energy and motivation to start my day. This is why I have completely stopped watching anything on social media in the morning. The alarm goes, and I spring out of bed right away. Really!

Scrolling through social media late at night, or first thing in the morning, can be bad for your mental health. It is a fun habit, but studies show that the light from phones or other devices can disrupt your sleep, leading to low mood and energy the next morning. Not so good!

So, swipe wisely – late night scrolling can cast a shadow over your day. Stay safe. Stay happy. Don’t be SAD!

Until next time!

All the best

Ryan