Anyone in London this time last year will remember the “Beast from the East” that caused UK temperatures to plummet throughout February. Now, due to a sudden stratospheric warming, experts are predicting the resurgence of similar weather across the UK.
This follows an extreme polar snap experienced in the US, with temperatures as extreme as -40C recorded in the Chicago area this week.
This extreme weather can serve as a reminder of the psychological toll Winter can take. Conditions such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affect around one third of people in the UK. It can cause sufferers’ mental health to worsen considerably during Winter months, with symptoms including a persistently low mood, lethargy and weight gain.
It’s thought that the symptoms of SAD are related to the lack of daylight often experienced in temperate climates during the Winter months. In sufferers, this can affect serotonin and melatonin production as well as confusing their circadian rhythm.
Even for those unaffected by SAD, the conditions experienced during Winter months can cause problems. People tend to exercise less when it’s cold, leading to lower levels of cortisol in the body, a hormone that controls stress levels. Moreover, the lack of Vitamin D can cause depressive episodes as well as affecting your skin, hair and nails.
Going into this cold snap, it’s important to be aware of this. For most people, exercising regularly and practicing good sleep hygiene will help you to get through the Winter months. However, if you feel that you’re struggling don’t hesitate to contact your GP.
If you think you may suffer from SAD, check out the NHS resources here.
