Surprisingly, there is such a thing as the “winter blues” which is also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, SAD for short. (“Ironic, isn’t it?) It can be caused by simple factor such as lack of sunlight whcih can casue a lack of vitamin D, change in routine, societal expectations, etc. It could be because our biological clocks are triggered by sunlight and darkness which affects the amounts of melatonin (the sleep hormone) and serotonin (the mood hormone) that our bodies produce. Symptoms tend to develop as fall or winter approaches and dissolve during spring. Though of course, the characteristics, severity, and patterns vary from person to person.
Symptoms may include:
- anxious feelings that are out of proportion with their cause or trigger
- feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- stress and irritability
- difficulties making decisions
- reduced concentration
- consistent low mood
- reduced libido
- crying often with no apparent trigger
- feelings of fatigue even if they had gotten enough sleep
- sleeping for too long
- increased appetite
- social withdrawal and reduced interest in activities they once enjoyed
- possible weight gain
- suicidal thoughts
It may seem inevitable but there is hope. A person can always find ways to brighten their day
Those affected just need to be open to making some changes. For starters they can expose themselves to sunlight however or whenever possible like getting up earlier to soak in more sunshine and increase their outdoor walks. It could also be beneficial to get a light box that mimic the sunrays or consider light therapy. While you’re at it why not use higher watt light bulbs more frequently perhaps in the evenings when there is no natural light.
Another option that could also be beneficial is cognitive therapy. This could help them take control of their reactions to uncomfortable environments and situations. Thought and breathing exercises that can help the person identify and decrease negative feelings. Overall, this could be a unique tool that can lessen the SAD symptoms during the seasons in which the effects are at their highest.
Another option to boost the mood are making changes in your diet. For starters, more protein intake to increase serotonin such as chicken, fish and other meats can be a blessing. More fiber can do your body good for this purpose such as oats, bran, avocados, broccoli and nuts. A healthy diet can do great things for your body. Turns out it can also be a great mood booster too.
As you’ve now learned, our environments can have a significant impact on our mental health. Even the small things can have a significant impact on out well-being. That is why we need to think out our daily decisions carefully. We all have our own personal issues. We just have to have the courage and be ready and willing to do something about it. We can’t hesitate, we have to take action upson ourelves.