Experts speak of seasonal affective disorder (SAD for short) - also known colloquially as the winter blues.
Depression: symptoms only in the cold season?
If you find that mild depression, i.e. symptoms such as melancholy, listlessness and listlessness, always occur in winter, a lack of vitamin D could be to blame. The body is not able to produce a sufficient amount of vitamin D when there is too little sunlight - and vitamin D is basically responsible for keeping us in a good mood. However, recent studies also suggest that low vitamin D levels can promote the development of some cancers. The risk of cardiovascular, metabolic and autoimmune diseases also increases as vitamin D levels fall.
Vitamin D deficiency is widespread
North of 35 degrees latitude, the sun is not high enough in the sky from October to March to provide us with the UV radiation required for vitamin D production. Your GP or dermatologist can determine whether you also suffer from a vitamin D deficiency with a blood test. If the level is too low, taking vitamin D capsules is recommended.
A daily dose of 1,500 to 2,000 IU of vitamin D is generally considered safe. Taking it can improve our mood - vitamin D also has a positive effect on our ability to concentrate. However, if the symptoms of depression, i.e. signs such as sadness and exhaustion, persist, you should definitely consult a doctor to discuss your symptoms.