Gloomy weather makes some people feel sad. Seasonal affective disorder can be combated by getting enough sleep, exercise and socialization.
The days are getting shorter as we head into late fall, and many are starting to feel down with less sunshine and cooler weather.
Mental health experts refer to this as seasonal depression or seasonal affective disorder.
“Seasonal affective disorder tends to revolve around any type of mood, stress, or anxiety-related change that has a seasonal component,” said Dr. Adam Borland, a clinical psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic.
According to Dr. Borland, symptoms of seasonal affective disorder can include feelings of sadness, lack of energy, and insomnia.
He explained that our overall mood can take a hit during the colder months because we tend to stay inside more and socialize less.
To help combat seasonal depression, Dr. Borland that you regularly prioritize time with friends and loved ones.
Along with being social, make sure you get enough sleep, keep up with regular exercise and eat a healthy diet.
Dr. Borland added that you also want to find ways to enjoy the outdoors this time of year, especially on sunny days.
You can even try a light therapy lamp while you’re inside.
“I am a big proponent of light therapy. I encourage many of my patients to start using it now rather than waiting for the symptoms of seasonal depression to appear,” said Dr. Borland.
Above all, emphasized Dr. Borland that it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional if symptoms of seasonal depression begin to drastically affect your daily life.
