We all have to cope with our low mood when the seasons change and as the colder weather sets in, many of us will feel pangs of depression taking over as the carefree feelings that the summer induces slowly ebbs away.
Believe it or not, this feeling actually has a diagnosed name and condition. Known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), this depression is related to the changes of season. The symptoms start for most people towards the end of autumn and will leave sufferers feeling depleted for the majority of the winter months.
If you’re suffering from SAD and are looking for some ways to overcome your bleak mood, here are some tips.
Bring in the light
One of the main reasons that people feel low at this time of year is because of the lack of sun and the fact that the days are much shorter. We all experience it and when we have to wake up while it’s still dark and don’t end up leaving the office until the sun has set, it can leave us feeling down in the dumps. A way that you can overcome this feeling is by trying to let as much light into your living space as possible. Avoid sitting in dark rooms at night time and when the sun is out, ensure that all of your curtains are open so that you can truly appreciate it.
Get fit and healthy
Cold weather and dark days can seem like the ideal excuse to lounge around all day and not do anything, but this is only going to make you feel worse. Instead of spending your weekend vegging out on the sofa, join a gym and get moving. Not only will this make you feel great about yourself, exercise is known to release endorphins that are scientifically proven to make you feel happy. All that working out is also going to mean that your Christmas party dress will look even better on you.
Enjoy the great outdoors
The sun may not be shining like it does during the summer months but that doesn’t mean that gorgeous things aren’t going on outside that you should be appreciating. Parks and outside spaces look stunning at this time of year, so round up your family and friends and enjoy a leisurely stroll. Getting closer to nature is a great way to deal with stress and helps to alleviate feelings of confinement that can come when the colder weather forces us to spend more time indoors.
Who do I talk to further about SAD?
If you’re suffering with SAD and would like to talk to someone about how to overcome it, get in touch with the Private Therapy Clinic today by booking online here.
