Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) afflicts billions of people during the darker, colder seasons of the year. This disorder features symptoms of depression, and is related to variations in seasonal light.
Affecting half a million people between September and April, peaking in December, January, and February, three out of every four sufferers are woman and the average age of onset is between 18 and 30 years of age.
We can’t change the seasons, or how long and short the days are, but here are three ways you can get over the winter blues.
1. Recognize the symptoms of SAD
If you’re running low on energy, but sleeping more, you may have SAD. An inability to focus and increased appetite are also signs of this seasonal malady. If you know or think you might be going through seasonal affective disorder, you can talk to a doctor or work on improving your mood yourself.
2. Increase your intake of vitamin D
By stepping outside and turning the lights on, you can actually boost your vitamin D intake to combat feeling down and out. Since there is not enough UVB light available from the sun while you’re North of Atlanta, Liqui-D3—an Rx vitamin—can be taken daily, 2-3 drops.
3. Be healthy, feel healthy
Go out of your way to get exercise, eat healthier, and reduce the stress factors in your life. Cut back on snack foods, staying up late, and limit your caffeine intake. Following these tips can promote better health, which can in turn increase energy and improve your overall mood.
4. Take simple steps to stay healthy
Get daily exercise. Even 10 minutes a day can make a significant difference in your mood. Take your Juice Plus and Fish oil every day to supplement exercise for additional health benefits.
If you want to get through the shorter days and colder seasons of the year, use the above tips to spot the signs of seasonal affective disorder before your mood takes a nosedive.
Use homeopathy for a natural approach to help you resolve SAD completely. Schedule an appointment with one of our naturopathic doctors so they can help you find right remedy.
