Dark nights - anxiety

[hol92]

Does anyone else's anxiety get worse when the nights draw in? It always has done slightly but last year I lost a very close pet in November while pregnant and became very very down and my anxiety also heightened alot during this time. I remember feeling a horrible dread feeling when I noticed it getting dark outside.

I used to love getting cosy and now I just feel full of dread about the dark nights, my beautiful baby was born in the spring and I have been so happy but I can't get rid of this overwhelming feeling that my anxiety is going to get bad again which in turn is giving me anxiety :( it's like I have a dark cloud coming over my brain and I don't know what to do, I just wondered if anyone else gets this and what I can do to help myself - thank you so much

Go to see the GP.

I feel like this too. My mood is affected so much by the weather and quality of light. I tried a SAD lamp but it gave me migraines.

You're dedinitkey not alone OP. I've always hated the dark nights and also get anxious and down at this time of year when the nights start drawing in. I tried a SAD lamp too but it did nothing for me. Are you on any medication for your anxiety? Sertraline worked wonders for me!

Yes, winter is an awful time for me, and many of us on here come together on a winter support thread each year (which must be due a revival for 2023) to share tips and ideas on how to get through it.
SAD lamps are great, as is upping your dose of vitamin D. Try and get out for a walk in the daylight every day, regardless of the weather, as that can really help. You can also buy light bulbs which mimic daylight and apparently they help too. I also agree with going to see the GP to talk about sup and possibly medication to get you through the worst of it.