Winter blues

Posted: 10/30/2020

If you begin showing symptoms of depression this time of year, you’re not alone. The shortening days of late autumn cause many people to feel down. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a result of the body producing more melatonin due to the change in season. Holidays can be another contributing factor to SAD and can cause you to feel scared, angry and down. Here are a few solutions that may help with SAD:

• Light: Enjoy some extra sunlight. Some extra time in the sun can help lower melatonin levels.
• Exercise: Get yourself moving, even if it’s for a short midday walk. Doing so can help improve your mood.
• Diet: Eating a healthy diet with leafy greens and lean proteins can help you avoid feeling down.
• Journaling: Writing down your thoughts can have a positive impact on your mental health and help get negative thoughts out.
• Meditation: This can help quiet your mind and decrease anxiety.

Don’t let the season change impact your joy over the holidays. If you are feeling depressed this time of year, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk with someone close to you or consult with a mental health doctor.