Autumn & mental well-being: did you know?

Autumn can be beautiful, but did you know that many people suffer from autumn depression or winter blues then? Shorter days and less sunlight affect your mood. Complaints often include: fatigue, gloom, fretting, sleeping more or just insomnia. This is also called seasonal depression (SAD).

What helps with a winter dip?

Healthy lifestyle remains the foundation: go outside every day, exercise regularly and make sure you have regular sleep times. For severe symptoms, the doctor may recommend light therapy or medication.

Self-care medication for depression and tension

Self care for sleep problems
- Keep a regular sleep rhythm: go to bed around the same time every day and get up at fixed times.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and screens in the evening.
- Make sure to relax before sleeping, such as by reading or breathing exercises.
- Sleep aids are used only briefly, for a few weeks at most, because they can be addictive and cause side effects such as drowsiness.
Self care for depressive symptoms
- Keep moving, even if it is difficult; daily walking or bicycling can help.
- Keep in touch with family or friends.
- Structure in the day provides a foothold, for example, set times for getting up, eating and activities.
- With mild symptoms, support and guidance often helps; medications are usually not necessary.
In our pharmacy you will find over-the-counter remedies that offer support for autumn symptoms:
- Vitamin D supplements: over-the-counter, important in low sunlight.
- Melatonin: low dosage without prescription, helps with sleep problems. Higher doses only with prescription.
- Valerian, for nervousness, tension, and insomnia

Prescription drugs

For sleep problems and depressive symptoms, treatment usually begins without medication. First the family doctor looks at lifestyle, daily routine and talks or therapy.

Sleep medications: can sometimes be used briefly, for example for a few weeks. They help you sleep better, but can be addictive and cause side effects such as drowsiness.
Antidepressants: are used only when symptoms are more severe or last a long time. These medications only work after a few weeks and must be taken for longer periods.

The doctor always discusses with the patient whether medication is needed and which treatment is best.

Role of the pharmacy

We advise you personally about safe use, side effects and interactions with other medications. This way you can be sure that your treatment is a good fit.

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