Seasonal Depression Tips: How to Beat the Winter Blues

For many people, the holidays are a time full of joy and celebration with friends and family. But for others, this very same time of year sends them right down into the dumps. If the cold weather tends to bring on those troubling winter blues, then this list of seasonal depression tips is Advantage Care Health Centers’ holiday gift to you.

How to Make this Holiday Season the Best One Yet

While many welcome snow and frosty temperatures, others find that winter zaps their energy and causes them to feel down and out. If you have symptoms like these, you may be experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Prepare Yourself Mentally

Just like you winterize your home, you also should prepare your mind for the holiday season ahead.

Devote a few minutes each day to practicing mood-boosting activities that will make you feel better physically, emotionally, and psychologically.

Do things that you enjoy, like walking for exercise, hobbies, or community service. If you stay active, it will be easier to maintain a positive mood during the winter months.

Try Bright Light Therapy

Fewer hours of sunlight in winter can cause some people to experience depressed moods.

Bright light therapy exposes you to artificial light, keeping your circadian rhythm on track. The phototherapy boxes used in it mimic sunshine, helping to elevate your mood.

2 Seasonal Depression Tips for Light Therapy

1. Sitting in front of the box for 20-30 minutes a day can make a big difference.
2. Use a lightbox within the first hour of waking up to receive the best results.

Exposure to this type of light causes chemical changes in your brain that may help alleviate symptoms of SAD.

Maintain Good Sleeping Habits

Regular sleep patterns are a must, no matter the season. Many people who experience seasonal affective disorder sleep more during the winter months than they do during the rest of the year.

Despite what many people would think, these extra hours of sleep don’t increase energy levels. Instead, those extra hours under the covers may be a sign of depression.

2 Seasonal Depression Tips to Help You Sleep Better

1. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
2. Follow an evening routine that prepares your mind and body to sleep well.

Take Vitamin D Supplements

During the winter months, your vitamin D levels may naturally decline, increasing your risk of developing symptoms of depression.

The most common cause of low vitamin D levels is less exposure to outdoor daylight. Taking a vitamin D supplement once a day can help you maintain optimal levels and lessen the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.

Follow Our Seasonal Depression Tips to Have a More Wonderful Winter

With so much to experience during the holiday season, don’t let the winter blues hold you back. You can minimize and even overcome the symptoms of SAD by following these simple seasonal depression tips and tricks.

Contact Advantage Care Health Centers for Additional Assistance

If you have any questions or would like to consult with one of our health care professionals, request an appointment. We specialize in mental/behavioral health services. Our team of mental/behavioral health specialists, including psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers, are available to help you today.