Rid the Wintertime Blues

Hundreds of thousands of people in the northern climates suffer every winter from lethargy, cravings for carbohydrates, weight gain and, sometimes, depression. These people suffer from a physical disorder known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. When the quality of sunlight lessens in the winter, this triggers SAD symptoms in sufferers. SAD is not a foregone conclusion every winter, though. Through planned activities and lifestyle changes, SAD patients can live happier and healthier lives during the winter season.

Work it Off

Exercise helps the body to release certain hormones that increase happiness and satisfaction. SAD sufferers can work toward alleviating their symptoms by walking outside in the snow, sledding down hills or making snowmen with their children. As long as people dress for the weather by donning layers of breathable clothing, exercising in below-zero temperatures is perfectly safe and healthy.

Turn up the Lights

The lack of sunlight seems to trigger SAD in most people. Sufferers can improve their mood and lessen their symptoms by installing a full-spectrum light. The light needs to be where the person can receive the most benefit, such as over a desk that is used for hours at a time. Three or four hours of artificial sunlight each day seems to relieve the symptoms in most patients.

Keep in Touch

SAD sufferers are much like hibernating bears. They don't want anything to do with other people, and are often described as hermit-like in the winter. This is contrary to what a patient should do. Human interaction helps to increase motivation and positive thoughts in almost every person. SAD sufferers should make an effort to increase their interactions with other people. Visits in person are the best, but if that is not possible, regular long distance calling and even chatting on social media websites can fill in as human touch of a sort. As long as a person is connecting with other people, they can receive the benefits from this contact.

Celebrate

Christmas isn't the only holiday during the winter season. Valentine's Day is in the middle of the worst part of winter, and is the perfect setting to getting rid of SAD symptoms. The mental rush of falling in love or the sweet confidence connected to a deep and lasting love are both effective cures for SAD blues. Indulging in shameless romance can be exactly the cure someone needs, as it will help release hormones throughout the body that create exactly the opposite feeling as SAD.

Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. Liz also likes running, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with her dog, April. If you would like to contact her she can be reached at healthylizd@gmail.com.