Preparing Yourself for the Emotional Challenges of SAD and the Winter Months

"According to Mental Health America, about 5% of people experience seasonal depression a year. It may occur due to a reduction in serotonin and an increase in melatonin—both due to less sunlight. The odds of experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD) increase the further a person lives from the equator. Symptoms often mirror general depression, including lethargy, lower libido, and hopelessness.

Let The Sun Shine In

Yes, the days are shorter, and sometimes the clouds are so thick it’s hard to know if the sun even exists. But there are also days when the sun bursts in through the windows. On days like those (or honestly, even the gray days when it’s not entirely dark), make an effort to let the light in. “Sunlight can reduce fatigue, boost immune response, and promote better sleep and digestion, not to mention its encouragement of higher levels of dopamine, one of our happy hormones,” explains Malone.

Use Light Therapy

Commonly referred to as a SAD lamp, light boxes are artificial light that can trick the brain into releasing mood-boosting chemicals.

Prioritize Scheduled Activities

“Engaging in recreational sports, meet-up groups, scheduled workouts, community meetings—whatever activities offer an outlet and source of joy in the warmer months of the year — is critical,” says Dr. Tynessa Franks, a clinical psychologist with her own private practice. “Do anything you can to prevent the change in sunlight during the winter from causing you to go into full hibernation mode.”

Be Aware of Other Changes

In addition to the changes in the weather, the fall can also bring new schedules. Be aware of these other factors when analyzing how you feel.

When To Start Preparing For Winter

It’s never too early or late to pay attention to your mental health. “In clinical practice, we often see individuals start to experience symptoms in October when temperatures start to cool and the period of daylight gets noticeably shorter in many places,” says Franks. “Symptoms tend to intensify in November and continue through the winter months.” “maintain a healthy routine year-round to mitigate the impact of the change in seasons.”

When to See A Mental Health Professional

It can always help to speak to a mental health professional leading up to or during the winter months."

Read the complete article available at Very Well Mind!

Reflection:

Do you experience SAD? What do you do to cope?

#SeasonalAffectiveDisorder #Depression #MentalHealth