5 things you can do to reduce Seasonal Affective Depression symptoms
Seasonal Affective Depression otherwise known as SAD comes during the colder months like a bad cold you can’t recover from. With the Winter Solstice starting in December it could be a terrible time for those who are easily prone to developing SAD. Not only do the winter months keep you cooped up in the house, but it also gets darker earlier in the day. Thanks, daylight savings time! These times can be torturous for many people that already struggle with depression, live alone, or dislike the holiday season. If you find yourself feeling, well, not like yourself…Then keep reading. Here are 5 things you can do to get out of that winter blues slump.
Taking a Vitamin D supplement, of course, nothing can substitute the production of Vitamin D that being out in the sun will give you. However, with the sun going down sooner taking a Vitamin D supplement will not only help boost your mood but it’s great at lowering your risk for things like type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and heart disease. Taking 1 a day can help improve your mood and reduce depression symptoms.
Get out of the house! Being in one place cooped up isn’t good for anyone. Especially those struggling with Seasonal Depression. Sometimes it’s hard to even get out of bed, get dressed or even eat. A change of scenery could do you some good, even if it’s going outside to check the mail. Check and see if your city is having any events/festivals going on in your area. Going to something like this will take up a good portion of the day and will keep your mind active on the fun that’s going on around you.
Make time for yourself. Make yourself a nice, warm bubble bath, and add some Epsom salts to it. This will help relax those muscles and reduce the stress from your day. Add a face or hair mask while you are soaking. After you get out of the bath pop in your favorite movie and make your favorite snack. Put your phone down and be in the moment of taking care of yourself. You should always come first, make it a routine to do it at least once a week and you’ll start noticing you are excited for when your self-care day comes!
Spend time with friends and family. It’s always a boost of serotonin when you get to belly laugh with your best friend. Or spending a night with your family having dinner. There is nothing like having the support of your family and if you are feeling up for it you can confide in either your friend or family member to be there for you when you need it.
Talk with a professional. If all other resources fail you always have the option of reaching out to someone you can talk with. There is no shame in getting help and having a therapist guide you through this challenging time. Medication may be your last result but it’s a great solution!
