Stockholm - Post Report Question and Answers
Are there any particular mental health issues that tend to crop up at post, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (winter blues)?
It is dark for a loooooong time in the winter, so seasonal affective disorder is a real thing in Sweden. - Dec 2020
SAD can be an issue during winter months. Embassy issues families and offices SAD lamps, which I use just because I like the bright light. Also, Swedes are not the friendliest lot, so it can be tough to make local friends. Social scene can be a bit isolating. Swedes are also very independent people, in general. - Sep 2020
Winter blues are common. It's a mental battle, but with the right strategies, you'll be ok. - May 2020
The winter here is a real challenge for those of us who need sunlight. December is manageable, as the city lights up for Advent and Christmas. Once January rolls around, the lack of light becomes an issue. The embassy provides SAD lamps for every house, which helps, but it's a good idea to plan a trip in January or February to a sunny location. - Jan 2017
