Popular television doctor Amir Khan has received a wave of support from his followers after candidly revealing his personal struggle with the winter months. The well-known medic, who regularly appears on ITV and shares health advice on social media, admitted the short days and cold weather are taking a significant toll on his wellbeing.
'I Am Not Built For This': A Doctor's Candid Confession
In a heartfelt post on Wednesday, January 10, 2026, Dr Khan opened up about his difficulties, specifically highlighting the profound impact of the limited daylight. "Guys, is anyone else just completely knackered? Honestly, this winter is messing with my circadian rhythm," he wrote. "We're not supposed to come to work in the dark and go home in the dark."
He humorously contrasted the human experience with that of animals, quipping that they hibernate or migrate rather than tackle emails in the gloom. Dr Khan, referencing his own heritage, added, "I'm a brown person. I am built for the tropics, you know, the sun, vitamin D, all year round. I'm not built for ice and mammoths and big woolly coats." He suggested a radical solution: that the working day should align with daylight hours, proposing a schedule from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm.
Fans Rally with Empathy and Shared Experiences
The doctor's admission resonated deeply with his audience, prompting an immediate and empathetic response. One fan echoed his sentiment, writing, "Meeeeeee! I was still at work at 6.30pm and it felt like it was midnight! Roll on spring." Another fan whimsically agreed, stating, "I always think I'd like to be more hedgehog during winter, and just wake up in the Spring after a lovely sleep!"
Several followers expanded on the theme, with one offering a thoughtful perspective on human evolution and modern society: "My theory is that we’re designed to ‘hibernate’... I’m not sure our bodies have kept up with the way society has changed and how fast paced it is now?" This collective response highlighted a widespread feeling of winter weariness among the public.
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Dr Khan's experience touches on a recognised medical condition. The winter period is a common time for people to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that typically occurs during this season. According to the NHS, symptoms of SAD can include:
- A persistent low mood and a lack of interest in usual activities.
- Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or irritability.
- Difficulty concentrating and increased fatigue.
- Changes in appetite, often leading to overeating.
- In severe cases, thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
The primary characteristic of SAD is depression that emerges in winter and lifts in summer. The NHS outlines several treatment options, including:
- Antidepressant medication.
- Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
- Light therapy, which involves sitting near a special lamp called a light box.
For individuals in England aged 18 or over (16 in some areas), it is possible to self-refer directly to NHS talking therapies without needing a GP appointment first. The health service advises anyone who believes they may have SAD, or whose current treatment is not helping, to consult their GP.
Dr Amir Khan's openness has not only garnered personal support but has also shone a light on the very real challenge of winter wellbeing for many across the UK, where daylight in London currently lasts for just over eight hours.
