As autumn arrives and the days become noticeably shorter, many people notice changes in their energy, sleep and mood. For some, however, the winter months can bring something more significant, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, usually beginning in autumn or winter and improving in spring.

So what is going on in the body and how might homeopathy support someone who experiences this pattern?

Why does winter affect our mood?

Our brains are remarkably responsive to light. Reduced daylight can affect the body’s circadian rhythm, our internal body clock, as well as melatonin and serotonin activity. Melatonin helps regulate sleep, while serotonin plays an important role in mood.

People who are susceptible to SAD may therefore experience increased sleepiness, low energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite and, importantly, a noticeable drop in mood as daylight decreases.

SAD is more common in people living farther from the equator, and susceptibility also appears to be influenced by factors including genetics and a history of depression or other mood disorders.

Where does homeopathy come in?

There isn’t one SAD remedy, or even one depression remedy. Instead, we look at the individual and what happens to their mood, energy, sleep, appetite, thoughts and behaviour as winter arrives.  We would also look at their history of mental health issues and if there’s a pattern in their family. This will help us with finding the remedy selection.

Some examples of remedies that may be useful for SAD (for educational purposes only):

Gelsemium

In cases where winter brings heaviness, lethargy and mental fog.

The person may feel sleepy, sluggish and physically weak, with little motivation to do anything. They may want to curl up and be left alone. Their mind can feel slow and hazy and they may find it difficult to concentrate.

It’s less “I’m desperately unhappy” and more “I just can’t seem to get myself going.”

Sepia

For the people where winter makes them feel completely overwhelmed by life and other people’s demands.

They may feel emotionally flat, irritable or disconnected and have a strong desire to escape from responsibilities and everyone who needs something from them.

Exercise and physical activity may actually improve their mood, even though they initially feel as though they don’t have the energy or inclination to do anything.

Natrum muriaticum

Here the winter picture can be much more internalised and those around them may not know they’re struggling.

The person may withdraw, prefer their own company and find it difficult to talk about how they’re feeling. They may appear to be coping on the outside while experiencing considerable emotional sensitivity underneath.

They can become particularly affected by memories, disappointments or grief, and may want to process things privately rather than being comforted.

Phosphoric acid

This is a picture of deep depletion.

Someone may have been coping with prolonged stress, grief, overwork or emotional strain and eventually feel as though their reserves have simply run out.

There can be apathy, indifference and a lack of interest in things they would normally enjoy. They may not necessarily feel intensely emotional, they’re just done.

But don’t rely on a remedy alone

Homeopathy can be one part of supporting your wellbeing through the darker months, but there are plenty of practical things you can do alongside it.

1. Get outside during daylight. Even a grey Cornish day is brighter outdoors than inside. Try getting outside in the morning or around lunchtime.

2. Move your body. Walking, swimming, yoga, cycling or simply getting out for a coastal walk can all help support mood and sleep.

3. Create a routine. A regular dog walk is a brilliant example because the dog doesn’t care if it’s raining.

4. Have you people you can rely on. Arrange a weekly walk with a friend, have someone you can phone when you’re having a particularly blue day, or make regular social plans before winter gets into full swing.

5. Eat well.  Regular meals containing protein, vegetables, fruit, wholegrains and healthy fats can help support overall health and energy.

6. Watch alcohol intake (and no that doesn’t mean watch it go down your throat!). Alcohol is a depressant and although it may initially make you feel more relaxed, it can negatively affect mood and disrupt sleep, two things you don’t particularly need more of when you’re already struggling.

7. Take Vitamin D supplements.  There is also growing interest in the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and depression. Vitamin D receptors are found in the brain and vitamin D is involved in a number of processes relevant to brain function and neurotransmitter activity. A 2022 review found an association between vitamin D deficiency and depression.  In the UK, sunlight isn’t strong enough during much of autumn and winter for our skin to make sufficient vitamin D, which is why it’s recommended everyone take a Vitamin D supplement. Make sure it also includes Vitamin K2 to help with proper absorption.

Start before you’re struggling! If you know that your mood reliably dips every autumn or winter, don’t wait until January to do something about it.

Start building your support network now. Get your walking routine going. Look at your diet, sleep and alcohol intake. Think about vitamin D. And if you’re interested in homeopathy, autumn can be a good time to explore your individual pattern before you’re right in the middle of it.

After all, winter might be inevitable, but feeling completely flattened by it doesn’t have to be your annual tradition.

Want to learn more? I am available for drop-ins at The Hub on Wednesday mornings 9-11am from November 4th.. Or visit my website at www.serenityhomeopathybysarah.com to book an online free 15 minute initial chat.

I look forward to helping you keep a smile on your face this winter!