Are you SAD?

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, reportedly affects many people every year. And here we are, headed into the prime season, when the days are getting shorter and darker. What should you do if think you might be SAD?

First, learn a bit about SAD to understand if that might be what is happening to you. Characteristics of SAD include:

• regularly occurring depression that happens during fall and winter
• loss of energy
• craving for sugary and/or starchy foods
• disturbed sleep patterns

Light-therapy can help.A full spectrum light replicates the kind of daylight we experience in spring and summer, and can help alleviate symptoms.

Exercise can also help. Try to keep moving during the low light months. This will help with the food cravings, and might improve your mood at the same time.

Be kind to yourself! SAD isn’t a character flaw or weakness. It is a physical disorder that has emotional and physical symptoms. If you find you need additional support, ask for help. You don’t have to suffer silently!

October 11th, 2006 - Posted in Health: Emotional, Physical, Mental, Spiritual | | 0 Comments