Newcastle considered to be among happiest cities in the UK as well as the least affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder

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New data has shown that Newcastle may be one of the cities in the UK least impacted by Seasonal Affective Disorder.

New data from Bigvits.co.uk shows Google searches for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) hit 15.6 million in 2024, with 23% of Brits looking online for SAD advice.

Bristol tops the list for searches about Seasonal Affective Disorder showing residents there are keen to tackle the Winter blues. In contrast, Newcastle has some of the lowest search levels, relative to its population.

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The only city with a lower search rate for Seasonal Affective Disorder came in Manchester,

Photo: Getty Images.Photo: Getty Images.
Photo: Getty Images. | Getty Images

SAD is described by the NHS as “a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern.

The health service continues: “SAD is sometimes known as ‘winter depression’ because the symptoms are usually more apparent and more severe during the winter.”

Northern Ireland shows the highest proportion of SAD searches relative to its population, with 29% of residents (by population) looking for SAD information online.

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England and Scotland follow, with roughly 21% and 23% respectively, whilst Wales reports a smaller proportion at about 20.9%.

"It's obvious from our research that seasonal sadness is a key factor in many Brits' well-being concerns," says Dr. Shane Thurlow, PhD and Nutritional Scientist at Bigvits.co.uk.

"Quality sleep, balanced nutrition, and time in nature can help ease Blue Monday's impact. Small, steady steps toward wellbeing bring huge rewards."

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He adds: "Despite interest in SAD, the spike in mindfulness, meditation, and 'Self Care Sunday' searches in our research reflect a push towards proactive mental health".

The data comes following ‘blue Monday’, which came on Monday, January 20. It is thought the third Monday of the year is the day most people struggle after the daily grind of work becomes normality once again after the traditional fun and festivities of the festive season towards the end of December.

Anyone wanting or needing support at this time can conact NHS mental health services.

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