There are thousands of individuals that have seasonal depression.
It's not fun to deal with. Knowing the symptoms can help you
figure out that is what is going on with you. Many people can do
things at home to deal with it and others may need some
medication to help out.
Signs of season depression are:
Feelings of depression that happen most of the day, every day
in a seasonal pattern.
Having tiredness or low energy.
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy.
Changes in appetite or weight gain.
Sleeping too much.
The number one thing a Dr. will tell you to do is invest in a light box.
You want to sit in front of the light box for
20-30 minutes a day.
Dawn simulators can help as well. These devices are alarm clocks,
but rather than waking you abruptly with beeping or music, they
produce light that gradually increases in intensity, just
like the sun.
Prepare for social activities. When you have seasonal depression
a lot of times you want to get out but you are too depressed
to go out around others. Make plans that excite you and keep
it to a limited amount of people so it doesn't overwhelm you.
Aromatherapy may work for you as well. Lavender is relaxing,
peppermint and lemon both help aid in anxiety. You can use a
diffuser, the lava rock bracelets and even a nasal inhaler
or all of the above.
Sticking to a schedule can help you as well, try to be as
exposed to as much natural sunlight as possible, keep your
curtains open if you are home.
Exercise, yoga and meditation may help. Try to exercise outside
if it's not too cold, if you have to do it indoors try to
stay close to a window if possible.
Try to avoid alcohol, drinking can make the depression worse.
If you feel like you do really need a drink try to turn to a
glass of red wine because it's actually good for your brain and
heart and most people who drink wine tend to just have a glass.
Journal, journal, journal... doing so helps you reflect on what you
may have done to have helped you have a better day or the
opposite and maybe you learn what some triggers are
besides just the season.
Take Vitamin D, you may already be deficient.
A lot of people who have depression have low Vitamin D,
I am one of those. Take a supplement, also it wouldn't hurt
anything having it checked by your doctor, you may need
a high dose. I take 50,000 IU once a week on top of
my multi vitamin that has Vitamin D on it. You are of course
not getting enough natural Vitamin D in the winter.
If you have tried things or you have been suffering over the
years, please go see a Dr. taking a anti-depressant
doesn't mean your weak.
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