Seasonal Depression Awareness Month - December 2024
Symptoms of SAD may include:
- Social Withdrawal: People with SAD typically prefer to be alone. They avoid friends and family and don’t participate in social activities they normally enjoy.
- Physical Discomfort: Headaches can become a problem.
- Fatigue and Oversleeping: People with SAD feel exhausted even though they may be sleeping more than normal.
- Irritability and Anxiety: Small problems can create or cause intense feelings of nervousness, unease, or worry. It can be hard to concentrate.
Tips to Manage Seasonal Affective Disorder
Structure – Go to bed at a regular time and get enough rest. Give focus to eating healthy meals on a regular schedule.
Make your environment brighter when you can – Experience as much daylight as possible by opening blinds and sitting closer to bright windows.
Get outside – Go for a walk, take your lunch outside, take short breaks throughout your day, and enjoy the sunshine.
Socialize – Connecting with your friends and family is a great way to lift your spirits and avoid social isolation.
Exercise – A regular exercise routine can help with stress relief, and being more fit can help to increase self-esteem. Plus, exercise increases levels in your brain of the same chemicals used in anti-depressant medications.
Seek professional help – We all have tough days at times when life presents us with an increase in overall stress. It’s ok to have a bad day. However, SAD is a type of depression, and if your symptoms do not improve, or even worsen, it may be time to seek professional support. Your primary care provider can be an important resource, providing initial behavioral health screenings and referrals to behavioral health specialists.