Light sensitivity and seasonal cues. Are seasonal changes in human mood endogenous?

There have been a lot of stories in the media in recent days about the impact of the clocks changing as well as days becoming shorter and shorter. Dr Cathy Wyse (Institute of Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research)'s research has been highlighted in The Guardian as she explores light sensitivity and seasonal cues in people with bipolar disorder. Even among those without clinical depression, many people experience a milder seasonal dip in mood, known as subsyndromal seasonal affective disorder (Sad). 

Prof Hayden Lorimer (GeoSciences) is part of a Wintering Well project, designed to support those with Sad in far north of Scotland where residents see less than 6 hours of daylight in the midst of winter. Orcadians will have access to light boxes and other resources to ward off the blues. Hayden has also voiced a survival guide to getting through the dark winter months which is available via BBC Sounds. 

Key message: don't feel guilty about that hot chocolate or an extra dollop of mash with your gravy on long cold nights!