Beating The Blues: Tips For Managing SAD
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Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, is a very real condition in which reduced daylight and sunlight negatively impact the mental and emotional states of people who are susceptible to the disorder. SAD can make people feel isolated, worsen depression, and create a negative impact on relationships. The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting ongoing mental stress can certainly exacerbate symptoms, and many people who have never experienced SAD are now seeing it for the first time.
Signs And Symptoms Of SAD
People suffering from SAD may have reduced energy levels, feel like sleeping more than usual, and be unmotivated or uninspired to perform everyday routines and tasks, even those they used to find enjoyable. They may feel isolated, have reduced productivity at work, and see a negative impact with regard to relationships with friends and family. SAD can impact sleep, appetite, and the ability to enjoy life. Those who already suffer from anxiety or depression may see a worsening of symptoms as the days get shorter and darker and sunlight is less abundant.
Ways To Combat SAD
It’s important to be aware of what causes SAD and recognize that while real and concerning, it is typically a temporary disorder that usually improves with warmer weather and extended daylight hours. According to Psychology Today, some people find relief from symptoms by utilizing bright light therapy. Others go to the extreme of relocating during winter months by becoming snowbirds and wintering in warm climates with lots of sunshine. Those suffering from SAD can find relief by seeking medical treatment for depression to get them through this particular time of year.
Staying Active And Healthy
Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol, and getting regular exercise can all help combat the symptoms of SAD. While those suffering may not necessarily feel like shopping, cooking, or exercising, these forms of self-care help reduce the doldrums. If multiple people in the household suffer from SAD, it can feel even more daunting to deal with. Making a household-wide commitment to identify and collectively combat the disorder can help everyone make it through.
Making Your Home a Haven
Making home a comfortable, beautiful, and inviting space can make staying put a little less painful. Get rid of clutter in your house, conduct a deep “winter cleaning,” open the windows and let in light and crisp clean air to refresh and blow out negative energy. Research comfy loungewear and seek out options that send you into a feeling of calm and relaxation the second you put them on. Coming together as a family and supporting one another through what has become a difficult winter can help reduce tensions, eliminate critical attitudes, and put everyone on a path to effectively coping and healing.
Seasonal Affective Disorder can impact anyone, and understanding its causes, as well as ways to combat the disorder, can help sufferers weather the storm. Reach out for help when it's needed. Your doctor can provide resources or refer you to an appropriate mental health care provider. Remember, this too shall pass, as a majority of SAD symptoms diminish as spring and summer months return.
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