Now that the winter months are coming, it’s important to be aware of the seasonal blues. Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that affects us primarily in the winter months, draining our energy and making us feel more moody. Here are some symptoms and possible treatments for SAD.
Symptoms:
- Low energy
- Oversleeping
- Irritability
- Problems getting along with other people
- Appetite changes, especially craving carbs
- Hypersensitivity to rejection
- Weight gain
Ways to cope:
Light Therapy- This therapy requires one to sit in front of a special light that mimics natural outdoor light. Doing so cause changes in brain chemicals that are linked to mood. This treatment usually works in a few days to two weeks and has very limited side effects. You can talk to your doctor about if this treatment is right for you.
Talk Therapy- Having either individual and group therapy can help deal with the effect of SAD. Therapy can help you identify and change negative behaviors that make you feel worse and learn to manage stress.
Exercise- Exercise improves your mood as well as decrease your levels of stress which often can increase feelings of depression during the winter months. One hour of exercise is equivalent to 2.5 hours of light therapy. Taking a brisk walk or run, sledding or having a fun snowball fight can decrease feelings of depression this winter.
Written By: Jenai Muhammad, graduate level intern, Loring Therapy, LLC www.loringtherapy.com Adapted from: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/basics/treatment/con-20021047
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