Homeopathy vol.10

Seasonal Affective Disorder

This is something we are very familiar with in the UK, especially this year where no sunshine played its role in the British summer. Having to adjust from long sun filled days to the dark and cold winter is one thing but to not have any sunshine at all is surely not good for our moods nor for our health. As we quickly come to terms with the fact that our summer time is pretty much over and it's only the few hours of extra light we have left before our clocks go back, it is possible that many of us will begin to feel the effects of sun deprivation. The credit crunch on top of bad weather is surely not going to make us feel very good. The symptoms which relate to S.A.D. can affect your sleep, emotions, mood and concentration as well as your appetite.

The general picture is feeling fatigue, mentally and physically. Lethargy, heaviness, and lack of vitality, buzz and enthusiasm are also typical symptoms of S.A.D. You may also feel anxious or irritable and even experience mood swings. It is typical when you feel low, lethargic or cold to crave sugar or carbohydrate to cheer you up. This pattern can become a habit during the dark and colder months which can also lead to weight gain.

Here are some remedies which can be effective at times like this when you need a little pick-me-up, to get you out of the rut of feeling down in the dumps and not be affected so deeply by the changes of weather or after a long hard working period with no holiday. The following remedies can be taken at 30C, morning and night time for 1 week and repeat if and when the symptoms come back. Although homeopathic remedies are safe as well as effective, it is important to seek professional support for any ongoing and chronic symptoms such as depression, where your symptoms can be monitored and treated accordingly.

KALI PHOSPHORICUM

Key notes of this remedy are low energy, sluggish mind and body. Spirit low and depressed. It is suited for people who are over exhausted or have gone through a stressful patch which has left them feeling empty and weak. Irritability is common as well as being very sensitive to environmental factors such as noise, light and touch. Sleep is also affected due to over exhaustion.

SEPIA
If you suffer from depression which is made better by the sun, Sepia is a good remedy to try. You can be feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable and even possibly on your own, like left out to do all the chores. You want company but the mood which you are in tends to make you take your anger out on the ones you love and care about. One thing which does help to bring back some energy and positivity for those who need this remedy is to exercise. A typical craving for those who need this remedy is chocolate.

AURUM MET
If your depression is clearly linked with sun deprivation, where you feel dark and hopeless with total lack of joy or interest in life, Aurum is indicated and can help you get you out of the dark. In extreme cases the lack of sunshine can have such an effect that you lose interest in life and you can begin to feel desperately depressed without any specific reason. Mood swings or feelings of deep guilt can also be common.

PHOSPHORIC ACID
Over exhaustion leading to apathy. Difficulty in comprehending, and struggles to find the right words when speaking. Lack of energy and feeling of being drained mentally as well as physically. Body can ache especially the limbs. Many when in this state look for pick-me-ups such as fizzy drinks and cola which gives them the buzz they are lacking and can become addicted to such drinks. Sleepy in the day but unable to sleep at night.

PICRIC ACID
Worn out feeling in the brain, most likely due to too much mental work. If you are feeling blue and tired and have also spent some time doing work which requires a high level of concentration, this remedy can bring back some focus. Brain feels heavy and there is a lack of will power to fulfil any task. There is also total weakness of the body which feels heavy and cold.

ARNICA
A remedy perfect for when you feel exhausted. If you have worked hard, exercised or have been through a stressful patch, Arnica can help to calm and sooth the mind as well as the body.

For people who think they are fine after working extreme hours or have been through stress without rest and over time the experience begins to take its toll. The sensation which is commonly experienced is the feeling of ache and bruising, mentally as well as physically.

Please note that Homeopathy, Herbs or Flower Essences should not replace appropriate diagnosis and/or emergency care without professional assistance. As with any health issues it is vital that one has professional support and individual responsibility is taken when choosing treatment.

Written by Aiko Dinan

Aiko Dinan moved from Japan to the UK in 1983. She grew up in Edinburgh, Scotland, and moved to London in 1993 to study Modern Languages at the University College London, as well as Cologne University in Germany. After graduating she went on to study Homeopathy for further 4 years at the Centre for Homeopathic Education, during which time she also completed a 2 year apprenticeship with a master Homeopath. Aiko also has a longstanding commitment in working in some of the most respected Homeopathic pharmacies in the UK, where she assists in making remedies as well as fulfilling the role as the in-house Homeopath.

Aiko is a member of The Alliance of Registered Homeopaths.