Are you experiencing S.A.D?
If you’ve noticed a negative shift in your mood during the colder months around the holidays, you are not alone! About 5 percent of adults experience seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that tends to be associated with a certain time of year.
Symptoms of Seasonal depression can include:
✅ Trouble focusing or concentrating
✅ Increased drowsiness during the day
✅ Loss of interest in activities that once brought you joy
✅ Suicidal thoughts
✅ Feeling irritable and anxious
✅ Feeling guilty and hopeless
✅ Increased appetite and cravings for carbohydrates
✅ Daily headaches
How to combat Seasonal Depression:
Stay Active: Exercise is a great way to naturally combat the imbalance of brain neurotransmitters that can contribute to depression.
Eat Healthily: A healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits and low in highly processed foods can help curb feelings of depression by reducing inflammation in our bodies, which is a risk factor for depression.
Stay Connected: Social connections can be a great defense against depression. Whether you talk on the phone, video chat or meet in person, keep in regular contact with friends and family for a healthy and happy mind.
Get Outside: Even on a cloudy day, go outside for a walk or to eat lunch at a park. Get as much sunlight as you can: Sit or work close to a window, open your blinds or trim trees blocking sunlight.
Ready to discuss a way to address the shift in your emotions and mood?
