Before, during, and after the holiday season, people suffer from the so-called winter blues. With spring still a good few weeks away, a lot of people blame SAD (seasonal affective disorder) for their changing moods, bur fortunately for them, there are effective ways to battle them.
SAD is usually considered a mild depression that people from cold countries suffer from, especially during winters. The reason is simple: lack of enough sunlight during winter months messes up with people’s moods, resulting in frequent behavioral changes. However, the easiest treatment is waiting for the beginning of spring, when SAD diminishes on its own.
Common symptoms of SAD are inexplicable tiredness, even after having enough sleep, and fragile psyches. Scientists have discovered that even if anyone can experience SAD, it is more likely to happen in the case of women aged between 19 and 55 years. Medical experts recommend various solutions for dealing with SAD. During winter time, people who are prone to suffering from mild depression should spend at least 30 minutes each day next to a light that imitates sunlight. This fairly simple treatment called light therapy has been proved to cause positive chemical changes in the brain, which in fact improves that person’s mood and alleviates the symptoms of SAD and winter blues.
However handy these light boxes might be for mimicking outdoor light, people should also make the most of the natural light whenever and wherever it is available. Two of the most useful ways of combating winter blues are opening the blinds or the curtains during the day, or benefiting from the natural light by taking regular walks.
Another suggestion recommended by researchers is making sure you get enough physical activity during the winter months. It really doesn’t matter what you choose; jogging, yoga or walking, they all help keeping anxiety away and make a difference in easing SAD effects. Experts encourage people not to avoid winter months, but to embrace the winter sports that come with snow, which also help continuing physical activity.
One of the most dreaded effects of SAD is the lack of desire to socialize. Scientists urge SAD patients to not give in to that apathy, but to push through by surround themselves with family and close friends, keeping them busy and the mild depression away.
Among the easy treatments that could battle SAD effects are a balanced diet and making sure you get enough sleep. However, if the effects do not subside, then experts suggest that a person should consult a doctor, who might be able to prescribe mild anti-depressants.
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