December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month, as the days keep getting shorter through the winter solstice. Around five percent of American adults suffer some form of seasonal depression. Symptoms can include a decrease in energy, sleeping too much or changes to appetite. While it's often thought about as a winter condition, it can also affect people in other seasons as changes in nature affect moods.
Here are some ways to combat seasonal depression:
- Talk with your doctor. If you think you may be experiencing seasonal depression or are struggling to cope, speak with your healthcare provider or a mental health specialist about any questions or concerns you may have.
- Get your body moving.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
- Find healthy ways to cope with stress.
- Stick to a routine.Take advantage of as much sunlight as possible during the day.
- Consider building outdoor walks into your daily routine.
- Journal.
- Practice self-care. Self-care can reduce anxiety and depression, reduce stress, improve concentration, minimize frustration and anger, increase happiness, and improve energy, among other benefits.
- Avoid or limit alcohol. While self-medicating may feel like it’s effective in the moment, it can cause or worsen feelings of depression.
- Try bright light therapy.