'Blue Monday' draws attention to Seasonal Affective disorder in Sask.
The third Monday in January is known as Blue Monday, drawing attention to the depression and the difficulties those suffering from the winter blues face.
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), five per cent of the country is affected by Seasonal Affected Disorder (SAD).
The CMHA says it’s quite normal for people’s mood to shift due to days being shorter, darker, and colder.
Herman Turcot, who lives in Saskatoon, said his mood is affected by the lack of sunlight in the winter.
“Everyday is a struggle, the sun is not out so it doesn’t help,” said Turcot. “That’s energy that what we need.”
The CMHA said SAD, or a milder version known as the winter blues, affects as many as 15 per cent of Canadians.
“For many people we can all feel it. But for some people, they actually experience a form of depression as a result of Seasonal Affective Disorder,” said the Executive Director of Canadian Mental Association Saskatoon Branch Faith Bodnar.
Bodnar added that Canadians feel the effects due to dark times and shorter days, with people only primarily affected in the Northern Hemisphere.
“For some people it affects their sleep pattern, as well as appetite. They can become very tired and listless so it’s really important to be aware of it,” she said.
Bodnar said the COVID-19 pandemic has brought challenges to people dealing with all mental health issues, including those with SAD.
“Prior to COVID we used to say one in five people would experience a mental health issue that requires medical attention, we’re now saying five in five people are experiencing mental health issues,” she said.
The CMHA Saskatoon branch is seeing existing clients four times as frequently.
For people who are experiencing SAD, Bodnar recommends getting outside, exercising regularly and eating a well-balanced diet, or reaching out to a medical professional. Bodnar also said now is the time for people to be checking in on each other.
“We never want to assume that somebody is okay just because they say they are okay,” said Bodnar. “If you got a family member who is having a little hard of a time, take dinner over to them, give them a call.”
It’s a gesture Turcot knows would go a long way.
“It’s so important, especially given this COVID-19, you got to check on people,” he said.
Those seeking help can contact the Canadian Mental Health Association Saskatoon Branch: info@CMHAsaskatoon.ca or 306-384-9333.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
BREAKING Iran fires at suspected Israeli attack drones near Isfahan air base and nuclear site
Iran fired air defences at a major air base and a nuclear site early Friday morning near the central city of Isfahan after spotting drones, which were suspected to be part of an Israeli attack in retaliation for Tehran's unprecedented drone-and-missile assault on the country.
NEW After hearing thousands of last words, this hospital chaplain has advice for the living
In his new book 'As Long as You Need', hospital chaplain J.S. Park opens up about death, grief and hearing thousands of last words.
LeBlanc says he plans to run in next election, under Trudeau's leadership
Cabinet minister Dominic LeBlanc says he plans to run in the next election as a candidate under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's leadership, amid questions about his rumoured interest in succeeding his longtime friend for the top job.
Prince Harry formally confirms he is now a U.S. resident
Prince Harry, the son of King Charles III and fifth in line to the British throne, has formally confirmed he is now a U.S. resident.
Trend Line Anger, pessimism towards federal government reach six-year high: Nanos survey
Most Canadians in March reported feeling angry or pessimistic towards the federal government than at any point in the last six years, according to a survey by Nanos Research.
DEVELOPING Israel targets air defence system in Syria, state news agency says
Israel carried out a missile strike targeting an air defence unit in southern Syria, causing material damage, state-run SANA news agency quoted a military statement as saying Friday.
Colin Jost names one celebrity who is great at hosting 'Saturday Night Live'
Colin Jost, who co-anchors Saturday Night Live's 'Weekend Update,' revealed who he thinks is one of the best hosts on the show.
NEW From window blinds to motorcycle helmets, here are the recalls in Canada this week
Here are the various items Health Canada recalled this week, including motorcycle helmets, power adapters, and bicycle cranksets.
Opinion 'Sasquatch Sunset' review: There won't be a weirder movie in theatres this year
Rare is the movie that can ride the line between scatological and sublime, absurdist and acute.