I’m a psychologist and here’s how seasonal AFFECTION disorder could be affecting your sex life – but there are ways to keep your relationship fresh

It is thought that a third of adults in Britain suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as ‘winter depression’ or the ‘winter blues’.

Patients often complain of a persistent low mood, concentration problems and a lack of sleep.

Although many people are now more aware of how SAD affects people’s mental health, the impact of dark, cold weather on libido is less often discussed.

Of course, a decreased sex drive can put a strain on a romantic relationship, especially if you are already in a depressed mood.

Speaking to FEMAIL, London-based Rachel Maclynn, a recognized industrial psychologist and founder of MacLynn, revealed how SAD can damage a person’s love life – saying it can hinder our willingness to communicate, while also reducing our motivation.

SAD leaves its victims feeling exhausted, depressed and unmotivated – “especially in romantic relationships,” Rachel said.

‘Communication may decrease or become turbulent; Those who suffer from the ‘blues’ may have difficulty expressing their feelings to their partner, and sex becomes less frequent (or stops altogether) due to a lack of motivation and drive,” she added.

According to the expert, daily interactions with your partner, including physical bonding, and daily habits can become tiring.

Rachel said: ‘Feeling down or lacking motivation can make date nights or the sexual side of the relationship difficult to maintain.’

“Furthermore, complacency can become the new normal, which is toxic to healthy relationships, as resentment can build due to the lack of effort and mundane feel of the relationship.”

She added: ‘The common side effects of seasonal affective disorder can include low libido, low energy, irritability, feelings of sadness or guilt, disinterest in your relationship or partner, and a lack of communication within your relationship. These can become bigger problems, such as turmoil in the relationship, loss of intimacy and in extreme cases even a breakup.’

However, patients should not feel alone. Considering that more than half of the population is in a relationship according to the USit is estimated that problems in the bedroom can occur in a third to a half of romantic relationships in Britain.

Rachel said: ‘It’s more common than we might think, but it’s also unlikely to be widely recognised, as the general population is vastly under-educated about the signs and symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.’

Rachel Maclynn (pictured), a certified occupational psychologist, encouraged people suffering from the condition to focus on self-care

Rachel argued that patients should focus on treatment and how best to alleviate the negative effects of SAD – with self-care playing a vital role.

Rachel suggested some routes: “Investing in therapy is always a good choice when working with personal issues, and relationship coaches may be able to give you tips and tricks on how to implement healthier, more positive practices personally and romantically.” she said.

If the cost of therapy makes it unfeasible, engaging in activities that promote deeper connection will do the trick, Rachel explained.

“Communicate openly and remind your partner that it’s not his fault you feel this way, and that you are still committed to him and the relationship,” she said.

“Take the time to learn your and your partner’s top love languages ​​and make a conscious effort to demonstrate that language to them and to you. Remind yourself why you fell in love with your partner, make the effort to plan date nights even when you don’t feel like it, and maintain some level of intimacy. Try to stay physically connected by holding each other, cuddling and having sex when you feel like it.’

Diet and a good night’s sleep can also reduce feelings of seasonal affective disorder, according to the experts

However, a holistic approach is encouraged, and rather than focusing solely on romance, Rachel encouraged individuals to invest in other aspects of their lifestyle.

She said: ‘When it comes to other areas of life, try to eat healthy, fresh food as your body needs vitamins and minerals to sustain itself during the dark winter period.

‘At work, do your best to put your time and energy into the task and look forward to seeing your partner at the end of the day. Taking some time apart can grow the feeling of affection towards them, which is a great way to promote intimacy and connection.

‘Finally, prioritize your sleep and try to get between seven and nine hours this time of year.’

Similarly, Dr Naveen Puri, medical director at Bupa Insurance UK, said those feeling the effects of SAD on their relationships should look inward and focus on self-care.

“Getting outside, eating right, exercising regularly, tracking your mood, and making plans can all help someone with SAD feel better,” says Naveen.

The doctor further encouraged individuals to note specific symptoms of the condition so that negative feelings are immediately associated with the condition and not repressed.

He added: ‘Recognizing patterns that make you feel down can help both you and your partner plan ahead for difficult days and make time for each other in ways that are consistent with the SAD symptoms.