Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to the change in seasons, typically beginning in late fall and lasting into the winter months. One in five Americans are impacted by SAD each year.
Specific causes are unknown, but the reduction in daylight can impact regulatory hormones in the body, which can cause imbalances in our rhythms and moods. Such as, disruption to your body's internal clock (circadian rhythm), leading to tiredness and feelings of depression; a drop in serotonin levels in the body that affects mood; and reduction of melatonin levels affecting our sleep patterns and mood.
Signs and symptoms specifically of winter SAD include:
Tiredness or low energy
Oversleeping
Appetite changes, especially craving more carbs
Weight gain
Natural remedies for SAD:
Light Therapy: An artificial light box that mimics natural outdoor light to allow the body to naturally maintain hormone levels related to daily rhythms and mood. *Mayo Clinic: Light Thearpy Can Help with SAD
Get Outside: Bundle up and take a walk or sit on a bench for a little bit. Even on cloudy days outdoor light can help.
Exercise regularly: Physical movement relieves stress and anxiety levels, lifting your mood.
Get a massage: Massage therapy has shown to significantly reduce stress and related symptoms, and lower anxiety and depression levels.
Studies show that regular massage can improve mood and reset circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep and more energy.
*Resources:
Mayo Clinic Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
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