Also known as the winter blues or winter depression, seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that happens and starts around the same time of the year, often during the fall and winter seasons.
It’s a feeling that is more than just feeling low. A person with SAD might experience symptoms including very low energy, low appetite, loss of interest, and difficulty concentrating. It comes to a point where the person’s life at home and work is significantly and negatively affected because they are not functioning productively.
So, is there a reason why people experience this type of depression?
Yes, it could be because during the fall and winter seasons, especially for people living in higher latitudes, there is less sunlight than for those living near the equator. Also, our body naturally makes more melatonin, a sleep-related hormone, during these periods of time.
What can you do to beat SAD?
- Expose yourself to more sunlight or do light therapy.
- Get your muscles moving by exercising regularly.
- Spend time with people and make plans to go out.
- Avoid downers like alcohol because they can make SAD worse.
- It will take time to feel better, so be patient and be kind to yourself.
- Often, it takes a combination of things to help you get through SAD.
- Lastly, if all fails, talk to a mental health practitioner like a clinical counsellor, psychologist, or psychiatrist for help. Be brave and conquer your thoughts. Asking for help is a good sign of improving your mental health.
So what is my advice?
Go for a walk for at least 1 hour when the sun is out. Don your favorite sweatshirt and grey pants before hitting the track for a jog or a run.
Go for a swim after work or school. Keep those muscles moving.
If you can plan a camping trip. Backpacking is a great way to exercise, get inspired, and explore nature.
If you’re sensitive to caffeine, stay away from it. Avoid coffee, tea, and energy drinks.
Don’t forget to eat healthy and to stick to your sleep routine.
If all fails, try showering in cold water. That usually wakes me up!
Remember, it’s a seasonal disorder; it will end at some point.
If you want to read more about this disorder and how to beat it, check out the UBC Mood Disorder Centre here.
