Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) symptoms are directly related to the change in seasons – as we go from periods of warm sunshine to the dark, gloomier days of late fall and winter. For some of us, depression sets in as the days grow shorter, and it can make for an unpleasant life experience. This can become a painful parenting struggle when taking care of a busy toddler or juggling the needs of multiple children. Even if you are prepared for the symptoms that are to come:
- Insomnia and difficulty sleeping – whether you are having trouble falling asleep, or sleeping in for too long, both are signs of a distressed circadian rhythm caused by low levels of serotonin.
- Lack of energy – sometimes we are lacking the sufficient vital micronutrients in our diet that help us to make it through the day, other times lack of energy is an overarching symptom, not one to be taken lightly.
- Difficulty concentrating – brain fog is not only caused by food/gut issues (gluten in particular), it is also caused by brain’s inability to cope with lack of sleep and increased stress throughout the day.
- Feeling hopeless and depressed by everyday activities – it is okay to be sad some of the time, but when it becomes a habit, it is time to make a positive change.
- Irritable and agitated mood – spending too much time indoors, can leave you feeling a bit caged. Get out for a walk as often as possible, no matter what the weather!
When the weather and lack of sun gets you down, what are you going to do about it? Well, for starters, lamps can help bring happiness to your life to some degree. There are wake-up lights that allow you to rise from slumber gradually by emulating the sunrise right next to your bed. During the day you can also indulge in the rays of an energy light to fight seasonal fatigue; often 20-30 minutes is enough time to keep seasonal depression at bay..
Even taking regular trips to higher elevations can help you gain your strength and sanity if you live a perpetually cloudy or foggy area.
Is your wellbeing affected by winter blues? What remedies have you tried doing that has helped you to overcome it?