Understanding And Beating The Winter Blues, (SAD) Seasonal Affective Disorder
Winter can be a very difficult time for a lot of people. While it can be exhilarating to experience a new season, it can be a time of depression as well. Some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This is a mood disorder sub type of Major depressive episodes or for individuals who have Bipolar Disorder.
Some symptoms may be feeling depressed most of the day nearly every day, having low energy, feeling sluggish, not having an interest to do activities, feeling hopeless, having a hard time focusing, headaches, weight gain, hopelessness, feeling empty, feeling exhausted and often having thoughts of death or suicide.
Complications from this order can result in problems with work or school, socialization difficulties, suicidal ideation, anxiety and other mental disorders as well as difficulties with substance abuse.
It is helpful to get outside even though it is cold! It is important to get light and vitamin D from the sun. At the very least, sit by a window and open the curtains to expose yourself to light. Adequate and consistent rest is also extremely important. It is also vital that you move your body and be active. Try to get in regular exercise. Eating a healthy diet of whole foods including a lot of fresh organic fruit and vegetables is also extremely helpful. Also, it’s important to reach out for support and to be social. If need be, counseling can be extremely helpful. Prayer and seeking a spiritual relationship with God can be very comforting during this time. Lastly, depending on the severity of symptoms, medication can be used. There are also many natural supplements that might be helpful.
You are not your mistakes, you are not what happened to you. You are worthy and valuable just how you are and with where you are with your life right now. It is never too late to set a new goal or dream. It is never too late to pursue your passions. It is never to late to create new healthy habits for self-care. Your life matters and you are worthy and valuable!
Here’s to new beginnings!
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YOU MATTER!
YOUR FEELINGS MATTER!
Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP (temp) NCC, M.S.
TN Licensed Professional and Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor
615-556-8406- Call or -text to schedule a Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question
Email: Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com
Diane holds a temporary license as a Tennessee licensed professional clinical mental health counselor (TN 4898) with a mental health service provider designation. Diane is also board certified as a national certified counselor (888025). Diane is clinically supervised by Sherry Knox (TN 2671) as she pursues full licensure.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.
Blessings, Diane