As winter comes to a close, you might notice a change in yourself or those around you. With the spring time comes budding flowers, those famous springtime showers, more sunshine, and for some people, a better perspective on life. Unfortunately, the dark winter months can have the opposite impact on a person's mental health. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD for short, fittingly) affects more people than you would think. Here are 6 ways to overcome those winter time blues.
1. Get Out In The Sun
The winter months bring shorter daylight hours, and of course cold weather. Two very good reasons to stay inside where it’s warm. But going outside in the sunlight has a very surprising impact on our bodies. The rays from the sun influence serotonin and dopamine, two chemicals our brain produces that affect our mood.
2. Move Around
While being outside is great, going outside and just sitting around will only have a minimal impact. Go on a walk, go to the gym, or do some yard work (if your yard isn’t covered in snow). Exercise promotes social interaction which helps with depression, as well as burning stress and releases endorphins.
3. Go On Vacation
While money might be tight for a lot of people right now, even a quick weekend get-a-way to warmer climates will give you a quick refresher before you have to get back to what seems like the 3 month hell that is the winter time.
4. Sit Closer To A Window
If your office has a window, it will actually help your health and mood to sit closer to a window. If that’s not an option, there are devices called “Light Therapy Boxes” that emit natural light, which is much better than those terrible office florescent lights.
5. Develop A Social Life
One of the toughest parts about any form of depression is the desire to be alone. Being around positive people who love you and support you can make a huge difference in your mood and depression. Social interaction is one of the most important aspects in overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder.
6. See A Doctor
In some cases, SAD (and many other forms of depression) is best handled by a professional. Depression is a very real disorder that many people don’t treat because they think they’ll get over it on their own terms. Many medications can help, as well as just having someone that you can confide in.