Seasonal depression ruining your sex drive? These tips will help you revive your libido

It’s that time of the year again! While the many holiday songs you’ll be inundated without in public may suggest it to be 'the most wonderful time of the year', most of us know that winter can be anything but.

Let’s be real here. The sun goes down at around 4:00 pm, and outside it's only getting colder. No wonder many people experience worsening of their depression or may pick up an acute case of Seasonal Affective Disorder (aptly abbreviated as SAD), which can lead to general lethargy and diminishing of that lust for life (and other things).

So, what is exactly happening when we get SAD, how does that affect libido and how can we stop SAD in its tracks to stay spicy and energetic every season?

What happens when you get SAD

During these winter months, sunlight comes at a premium, especially for those of us who live in colder countries. In fact, these changes in weather have heavy effects on mood. With less sunlight, our bodies produce less Vitamin D, as well as diminishing our production of feel-good hormones such as serotonin. There is also a drop in melatonin which affects your sleep. This is all just a long-winded way of saying that you’re probably going to feel less energised and alert.

SAD comes with many similarities as chronic depression, with this lack of energy leading to a want to just stay in, lay down for long periods, and maybe even things that were fun before just won’t seem as enjoyable. This can also lead to sex being put on the back burner for all those reasons, or simply, you don’t feel sexy in this time, so there is less of a drive to act on.

How to beat the SAD

You may be asking after reading all of that, 'Well, how can I feel sexy if I have SAD?' Worry not, because there are some surefire things you can do to reconnect with your sexy side even with SAD.

It’s wintertime, and you probably want to stay as cosy as possible. Cosy does not have to mean not sexy though! Just modify what sexy is to fit the season. Maybe wear some lingerie with a thick sweater, keep the lights low and light some seasonal scented candles, or hang some extra fairy lights to set setting a sensual yet snug vibe.

Aside from trying to sexy-up the darker environment, really try to connect with yourself too. Winter can mean we lose connection to our bodies because we become accustomed to seeing them under many layers.

Spend some time every day alone with your body to appreciate it: take a long shower, masturbate, or even spend some more time with your partner to rekindle your confidence and increase those missing hormones.

Kiss, touch each other, and admire each other’s bodies more consciously. This doesn’t even have to be done with sex as the goal, but it can quickly get hot enough to escalate to that if you want to!

Now you have a few ways to help beat the SAD in a sexy way this winter. Be also assured that if you are ever feeling down, no matter the time of year, seeking professional help and treatment is always the best route to feeling good in the long term!

Sources used:

She Knows: 'What to Do When Seasonal Depression Kills Your Sex Drive'

Bustle: 'If You're Prone To SAD, The Impact On Your Sleep & Sex Drive Could Be Huge'