Online Searches For Seasonal Affective Disorder On The Rise As Uk’s ‘loneliest Winter’ Takes Hold

By Author: Joshua Cornford
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Online searches for Seasonal Affective Disorder on the rise as UK’s ‘loneliest winter’ takes hold.

Trends data reveals that searches for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) are up 100 per cent in October as Brits search for advice on how to cope with the change in seasons.

With around 1.4 million older adults in the UK reporting that they often feel lonely combined with concerns for the elderly in the wake of the rising cost of living sparks fears that this winter could isolate thousands.

Brits are being urged to stay in touch with their elderly relatives amid fears that the coming winter could be one of the loneliest ever for the older generation.

It comes as the cost of living threatens to further isolate the elderly, as rising prices are predicted to disrupt their daily routines as many face the choice between paying energy bills and having enough food in their cupboards.

As the days become shorter, more and more people are also likely to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, known as ‘SAD’, which affects one in three people in the UK. In October, online searches for the condition ...
... were up 100 per cent as Brits search for advice and support.

The most common signs of SAD include loss of energy, changes in appetite and sleeping habits, irritability, and loss of interest in socialising and other activities, and with survey data from TakingCare Personal Alarms revealing that one in three relatives worry that an older relative is suffering from loneliness, there are mounting concerns for our elderly population this winter as they struggle to get out and socialise as they usually would during the warmer weather.

Louise Yasities, a home safety expert working with the elderly from TakingCare Personal Alarms, has shared her top tips on supporting loved ones through the tough winter:

“If you’re concerned an older person may be experiencing SAD symptoms, such as loss of energy, changes in appetite and sleeping habits or increased irritability, there are steps that can be taken to support them.

“Increasing light exposure by opening blinds and curtains, getting outdoors and soaking up Vitamin D and aiming to spend time in the brightest rooms in your home can all be simple ways to lift your mood.

“Regular physical activity is a proven way of reducing sleep and anxiety which also positively impacts sleep cycles and quality. Getting outdoors – even just for a walk to the shops or for a coffee – is great for your mood and also offers the opportunity to socialise.

“Ultimately, if you have growing concerns about an older person, don’t hesitate to seek further assistance from medical professional who can provide advice and guidance such as light therapy, appropriate medications or therapy to counteract feelings of seasonal depression.”

For more advice on supporting our elderly population this winter, visit the TakingCare Personal Alarms online resource hub.