Have you heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD? It’s a depression that is related to the changing of the seasons. Most often, SAD occurs during the fall and winter months, when the days are shorter and there is less sunlight. It is estimated that 3% of the population suffers from SAD.
So what can you do about SAD?
- Buy a SAD lamp
SAD lamps recreate natural sunlight, which can be lacking during the gloomy winter months. Using the lamp for an hour or two a day can greatly improve your mood.
- Don’t take the sun for granted
When you have a sunny day, take advantage of it! Try to go outside, especially on sunny days and take a brisk 20 minute walk. The more natural sunlight you get, the better!
- Get social
Sometimes you may not feel like you want to socialize, but it’s important that you do. Spending time with friends and loved ones can go a long way.
Before you diagnose yourself with SAD, go and see a doctor to make sure that you are suffering from SAD and not something else.