How to Avoid the Winter Blahs
What is seasonal depression?
Seasonal depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression related to the seasons. The most common occurrences of SAD take place during the late fall and early winter when sunlight hours are reduced and the weather can be bleak.
1. Get some fresh air
Try and go outside for a few minutes of daylight every day if the weather allows it. If you can’t get outside regularly, try using a light box that creates light similar to natural sunlight.
2. Watch what you eat
During the cold winter months you are more likely to crave sweets and starches. But carbohydrates and sugar cause sugar levels to spike, which can leave you feeling irritable, tired, and unsatisfied. To counteract this, try to maintain a balance in your diet by including protein in your meals.
3. Make sure you get enough vitamin D
The best source of vitamin D is sunlight, but consuming certain foods, such as salmon, tuna, milk, egg yolks, and fortified cereals, can also provide you with vitamin D.
4. Get moving
It’s important to stay physically and socially active in any season. Taking a short walk each day is an easy way to improve your mood.
5. Plan ahead
Use the downtime in winter to start getting ready for spring activities. Make a plan for the activities you like to do in spring and summer.
6. Talk to your doctor
If you are concerned about feeling down or depressed, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can check for signs and symptoms of depression by talking to you about your mood and lifestyle.
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