Weather and seasonal changes during the winter months, can make some people feel depressed and aloof causing them to have a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). To be diagnosed with SAD, you must have had major depression that coincides with the winter seasons for the previous two years. Symptoms for Seasonal Affective Disorder includes lower energy levels, isolating, overeating, and weight gain. Taking the initiative to make some positive changes that can counteract the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, may make you function better during the winter months.
Make your house brighter.
The indication of SAD can become more prevalent when it is darker in your living space. Maximize the daylight hours so that you can help to diminish the symptoms that are brought about from the darkness. Trim the trees and bushes that dim the house. Open blinds and shades during the daytime. Paint your walls with brighter colors and furnish your house with light-colored furniture, so that you will not live somewhere that might seem somber otherwise.
Make the best of what you have.
Once daylight savings takes over in the fall months, the days can seem shorter since the sun sets earlier when you must fall back an hour. Use your daylight time wisely. Get up earlier if you have to, so you can soak up the light of the day.
Make use of medication if you need to.
You might need the help of prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements to help you through the blues you may be feeling during the winter months. Antidepressants, melatonin, or Vitamin D can be prescribed by a doctor to help you feel better.
Make a ray of hope with light therapy.
Light therapy has been helped patients with SAD. A fluorescent light box can produce intense light that can be useful for someone who is experiencing winter depression. The therapy helps to regulate sleep by changing your circadian cycles. Using light therapy should be directed by a doctor to protect your eyes from straining.
Make yourself healthy.
Keeping stress at bay is important. One of the ways stress can be avoided is by taking care of yourself. Physical activity, regular sleep, eating healthy, and drinking lots of water are things that can help to reduce symptoms of SAD.
If you suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, you can also consult a healthcare professional to seek additional help. SAD is not just a side effect that automatically results when there is no light and it is gloomy outside. Seasonal Affective Disorder can be serious and can make a huge difference of whether you will hibernate like a bear or trot like a deer.
Serenity Oaks Wellness Center specializes in alcohol and drug dependency. If you have a loved one that is struggling with the drugs, alcohol, or both, call our staff to get your loved one on the road to recovery.
Call us today: 844-720-6847
