There are several ways to alleviate the depressive mood in winter. One way is to get as much natural light as possible. Spending time outdoors during daylight hours can be helpful. Another is to keep physically active. You could try indoor exercises like yoga or dancing. Socializing with friends and family regularly can also lift your spirits. Maintaining a balanced diet and getting enough sleep are important too. Sometimes, engaging in hobbies or creative activities can bring joy and distraction.
Chilly air and the end of holiday celebrations can make you seriously require a mood improvement.
If you’re having the winter blues, you’re not the only one.
For some, that blue sensation can go beyond a mild letdown.
SAD is a response to the shorter days of winter. The disorder can last from September to April, with the peak occurring in December, January and February. People with SAD may have an imbalance of melatonin and serotonin – two chemicals that control a person’s sleep cycle, energy level and mood.
“We generate more melatonin when it is dark, which leads a person to feel sleepy and sluggish. We produce more serotonin when we are exposed to sunlight. So during the winter months, we associate lower levels of serotonin with depression
Some of the most prevalent indications of SAD comprise:
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Difficulty concentrating
People with SAD typically feel like their usual selves again by mid-spring or early summer. Until then, there are actions people with SAD – or a straightforward instance of the winter blues – can take to feel improved. Discuss with your doctor about these common tactics
Exercise. Nothing enhances your perspective like an excellent workout.
Seek counselling. Discussing your feelings with a therapist can assist you in comprehending the issue and finding a solution.
Maintain your normal routine. People who undergo SAD should carry on with their usual routine – including going outdoors and spending time with friends – even if they don’t feel inclined to do so.
SAD is more than merely the winter blues or a poor mood you have because it’s chilly outside. If you experience SAD symptoms for three successive winter seasons, consult your doctor or a mental health expert.