Story By: Brecken Gurule, Staff Writer
As the leaves begin to fall, and the outside air starts to get brisk, people begin to anticipate the upcoming cozy season. For many this may be exciting because of the change of wardrobe and seasonal activities, but for others might be the start of what they call seasonal depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This condition is often dismissed and seen as just a case of winter blues however little do they know this condition dulls their joy without them even knowing. So how can we know what is Seasonal Affective Disorder, and what strategies can we use to combat it this upcoming winter?
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) also known as seasonal depression is a condition that is characterized as depression that occurs yearly around the same time every year. ¨This condition is due to the fact that there is less sunlight, and shorter days which affect a chemical change in your brain.¨ States John Hopkins University.
Not only that but a chemical made in your brain called Melatonin plays a big role in this condition. When the days begin to get shorter and darker more melatonin is made in your brain which causes people with SAD to feel more tired and lethargic which is a symptom of the condition. Some other symptoms of SAD can be things such as increased sleep and daytime drowsiness, loss of interest and pleasure in activities formerly enjoyed, social withdrawal and increased sensitivity to rejection, grouchiness and anxiety, excessive tiredness/ fatigue, decreased ability to focus, increased appetite, especially for sweets and carbohydrates, headaches, the feeling of loneliness, and more. Although these symptoms may feel endless and you might resonate with a few or even most of these symptoms does not mean that you have to be stuck in this cycle forever.
How to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder?
If you are caught in the constant cycle of this condition that may feel never ending during certain times, know that you're not alone, these feelings are completely normal. However, you don’t have to stay stuck. There are several effective strategies to help combat these challenges or feelings. Simple steps like exposing yourself to some type of light therapy, or adding a Vitamin D supplement to your everyday nutrition can make a significant difference. Some other ways you can combat getting stuck in a cycle during the winter is to plan certain things to look forward to throughout the times that you know affect you the worst. For example planning things such as hanging out with your friends, or going to concerts, or even maybe a road trip/ vacation. You can also get into some sort of regular physical activity like going to the gym. Although if these things don't seem to be working, therapy and medication can both be extremely valuable tools and relief. Remember, everyone’s journey is different , and it’s important to find what works best for you.
In the end Seasonal Affective Disorder is overall something that people should realize is normal and can happen. Look for the signs and know that it is okay to seek help and reach out to a support system. Different things work for different people, so find what's best for you and face it head on. You are not alone and you don't just have to set aside the way you feel.
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