S.A.D: Seasonal Affective Disorder
Tips for managing it…Fitness helps!
We’re entering full send into the coldest, darkest months of the year, and sometimes these months seem like years.
While we focus year-round on our physical health, we can’t neglect our mental health. Millions of people struggle with S.A.D. every year.
No, we aren’t just bummed that Summer is over. From the lack of sunlight, to the cold temps, to the holidays that remind so many of loved ones lost the depression rolls in as fast as the sun goes down.
What can we do to combat this?
A lot of things! It’s good to have a plan in place early.
My list of go-to tips has grown over the years through discussing this with so many people who can relate, and I hope they find their way onto yours.
Make a date, and KEEP it with a friend or group. Weekly coffee dates, bi-weekly lunch at a fun café, anything that gets you out of the house and in the company of others!
Start or revisit a hobby you enjoy. Bake, paint, read a good book… anything that brings you joy. DO THAT!
Brighten things up! Light boxes. They’re a thing. We lose so many hours of daylight during the winter months. Some of us wake up, it’s still dark. Get home from work, dark. Exposing yourself to a little extra bright light will help your mood! You can literally put them anywhere.
Music..turn it on, turn it up! Singing some favorite tunes in your car, kitchen or shower will definitely put you in a good mood! Music can be very therapeutic.
And one of my favorites, as well as backed by tons of research, FITNESS.
Moving your body the way it was meant to, and getting that release of endorphins! You don’t need to even be fancy with it. Go for a power walk or jog with a couple of friends. Getting that sunlight on your face, and fresh air helps the mood so much.
Group exercise is also proven to be effective in combatting depression as it provides friendship, accountability, and the feeling of being a part of something bigger than depression itself…a community and a team of people maybe fighting the same battle as you. You’re not alone.
I hope these tips help. If you or someone you know is fighting hard and needs help greater than what we/you can give. Please reach out to someone who can.
Suicide Prevention Hotline
1-800-273-8255 (TALK)
Text 988