The holidays are here, a time for joy and cheer. But it’s also the time of year cases of depression spike.
If you’re suffering, you’re not alone. in fact, two out of five people in the u-s suffer from depression. Millions are especially impacted by seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.
Colder temps, shorter days, gloomier skies, it all contributes to seasonal affective disorder or SAD. Here are some tips to help you cope with the feelings that come with the season.
SAD effects one in 20 people in the United States, so how can you stay motivated?
“Putting the right people around you, putting positive people around you. Those things are gonna bring us joy, fulfillment, contentment,” James West, a licensed mental health counselor and president of Total Life Counseling Center said.
Doctors suggest spending 30 to 60 minutes out in the sun each day and make sure you get enough vitamin D-3 to combat depression. Aromatherapy, particularly sandalwood oil, tea tree oil, lavender oil and lemon oil are all known to be mood boosters. Working out at least 30 minutes a day is a proven depression fighter and experts say yoga, tai chi, walking, swimming and running are particularly helpful.
But what if these methods don’t work for you, when should you see a doctor?
“If you’re depressed, you’re not wanting to eat right, you’re not wanting to go to work, you’re not wanting to go out with friends, or you’re isolating,” West said.
If depressed feelings last for more than a week, it’s time to get professional help.
The time change is also the most common reason people are affected. It impacts our internal clocks, causing us to feel more tired. Dawn simulators can help as the alarm clocks wake you up through gradually lighting up your room, mimicking natural lighting to encourage a calm wake-up.