New Zealanders who believe life might be a little less gloomy across the ditch may be on to something.

New research released by Hot Springs Spas suggests New Zealanders face a higher risk of seasonal affective depression (SAD) than our Australian neighbours.

Often described as the “winter blues”, SAD is a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, usually when the colder, darker months arrive.

The study ranked New Zealand mid-range, placing it 58th out of 124 countries analysed.

The ranking puts New Zealand at greater risk of seasonal mood changes than Australia, which ranked 91st, but significantly less vulnerable than countries such as the United Kingdom (10th) and the United States (14th).

Researchers analysed climate data, access to healthcare and mental health indicators to determine where seasonal changes may have the greatest psychological impact.

New Zealand’s ranking was influenced by its somewhat high annual rainfall of 1732mm, and average yearly temperature of 10.46C, two environmental factors commonly associated with seasonal depression.

However, our relatively strong healthcare system helped keep our risk score lower than many other nations higher up the list.

Researchers found New Zealand has 37.72 doctors per 10,000 people and an estimated clinical depression rate of 3.8%.

By comparison, Australia’s warmer and drier climate, with an average temperature of 22.05C and annual rainfall of 534mm, contributed to its lower overall risk score.

However, despite having more doctors available, 42.28 per 10,000, Australia reported a higher depression rate, with 4.9% of residents affected.

Hot Springs Spa general manager Aaron Sampson said colder environments can often lead to “bouts of depression”.

“That said, there are many ways to combat seasonal depression with being exposed to heat being a major factor,” he said.

“Heat can trigger those ‘happy’ chemicals in the brain which can lead to a mood lift.”

The exact cause of SAD is unknown, and there is no test to diagnose it, according to the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand.

Common symptoms include low moods, irritability, reduced energy, tiredness and anxiety.

“Treatment may be as simple as staying out in the sun for a time each day, or it may mean being treated for depression through the winter months,” the foundation’s website says.

The Himalayan nation of Bhutan was found to be most at risk of SAD, followed by Cambodia, then Guyana.

The country least at risk was South Korea, followed by Argentina, then Poland, according to the study.

Where to get help:
• Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7)
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
• Youth services: (06) 3555 906
• Youthline: Call 0800 376 633 or text 234
• What's Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm)
• Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7)
• Helpline: Need to talk? Call or text 1737
• Aoake te Rā (Bereaved by Suicide Service): Call 0800 000053 or [email protected]
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.