Does your physical or mental health struggle during the colder months? Do you lack motivation or feel depressed? The winter blues are common and some people have diagnosable Seasonal Affective Disorder. Read on for tips on how to feel better during the winter season!
Seasonal Affective Disorder is, “a form of clinical depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern” (Dr. Axe). It affects millions of people from September to April, and mostly from December through February. SAD can be triggered by a variety of circumstantial factors and is most common in adults. Symptoms include difficulty concentrating, lack of motivation, feeling down, weight changes, sleep struggles, and more (Dr. Axe). The good news is that there are many ways to address this and put you on the path to winter wellness!
One of the best things you can do during these dark, cold days is to be exercising and getting light! Open the blinds, go for a walk or do an indoor workout, and consider talking to your provider about taking a vitamin D supplement (the vitamin we get from exposure to the sun!). It can be easy to spend a lot of our time sedentary in dark or artificially lit spaces, but making sure that you are moving and getting natural light may do wonders for your physical and mental health (Dr. Axe)!
Just as important is your nutrition and self-care practices. Eating a nutritious, balanced diet is so important for managing the winter blues. Cook your meals at home whenever you can instead of eating takeout, and eat a variety of whole foods! Self-care also includes normalizing your sleep patterns, socializing and staying connected, and practicing stress-management techniques (Mayo Clinic).
You don’t have to navigate the winter blues or SAD alone. Getting connected to mental health services is a great way to stay afloat during this time! At Compass Community Health, our Behavioral Health team is here to provide compassionate support tailored uniquely to you. Don’t struggle alone- reach out by calling (740) 355-7102!
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-Email: info@compasscommunityhealth.org,
-Message us on Facebook @ Compass Community Health
-Call: 740-355-7102
-Address: 1634 11th St, Portsmouth, OH 45662
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