How to beat seasonal depression
Experts offered advice to manage seasonal affective disorder as winter approaches.
Seasonal affective disorder — a type of depression attributed to the shorter days of autumn and winter that come with longer hours of darkness and reduced daylight — is characterized by diminished moods, lethargy and sleepiness, according to a news article from The Washington Post. The experts cited in the article suggested that the more limited natural light may result in a desynchronized circadian rhythm.
The condition is often more prevalent among women and can affect about 5% of Americans, with many more experiencing a less severe type of seasonal affective disorder known as winter blues. However, treatments may help minimize symptoms and help individuals cope with shorter days. For instance, bright-light therapy, which involves the placement of a light box delivering 10,000 lux of light to indoor spaces, has been shown to improve mood in a majority of patients.
In addition to adding more light to the home, the experts also recommended that individuals take in the first morning light and partake in mindfulness exercises for grounding; achieve regular physical activity such as lifting weights, yoga and walking outdoors to combat symptoms of depression; speak with a mental health professional to keep in touch with their feelings or receive additional support; and start preparing during autumn for peaks in seasonal affective disorder that typically occur in January and February. For those who require treatment, antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy have resulted in positive effects.
Read more: The Washington Post
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