21 Seasonal Affective Disorder Self Care Tips
Seasonal Affective Disorder is when a person experiences a depression that derives from the lack of light, typically during the fall and winter seasons. The American Psychiatric Association explains that "About 5 percent of adults in the U.S. experience SAD, and it typically lasts about 40 percent of the year" (Psychiatry.org) but is treatable. This article will share seasonal affective disorder self-care tips.
U.S. Adults with S.A.D.
How Long Their Symptoms Last Each Year
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression resulting from the lack of sunlight and other nutrients. Typically, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) does not affect those under 20 years old and worsens over time. The drop of serotonin that comes from the sun can affect mood and affect overall mental health in the fall and winter seasons, so it is very important to learn how to fight SAD.
Seasonal depression is not a feeling you should brush off when experiencing "winter blues." Yes, the SAD may be a temporary depression during the year, but it affects your motivation and how you maintain your mind and body during these months. The sluggishness can affect your need to maintain your physical health with sports or even eating properly and affect your mental health by the darker thoughts you let in your mind.
But what does seasonal affective disorder look like?
Seasonal Affective Disorder Symptoms
Many different symptoms may help you identify if you suffer from SAD. These symptoms are very similar to depression because of the season's effect on the body.
- Feeling sluggishness
- Lack of motivation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Negative thoughts
- Suicidal thoughts
- Low energy
- Inability to enjoy activities
Symptoms more exclusive to fall and winter seasonal depression are:
- Oversleeping
- Change in eating habits
- Weight gain
Symptoms more exclusive to spring and summer seasonal depression are:
- Lack of sleep
- Weight loss
- Irritability
- Anxiety
How can We Treat Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Depression tends to be looked over, and many do not take the effort to maintain themselves. This can affect their daily lives and the responsibilities and friendships that need to be taken care of. There is not a simple one-time solution for seasonal affective disorder, but there are many ways you can maintain your mental and physical health during these times.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that comes from the lack of sunlight in fall and winter. There are many ways you can take care of yourself to support your mental health during these times. To fight these intense feelings of winter blues, make sure to focus on the positive, shift your mindset, and maintain your physical health. In doing this, you can get back on your feet and fight the depression that comes from the weather.
Helpful Seasonal Affective Disorder Resources
About the Author
Brandon Landgraf is the Digital Marketing Manager for Carex Health Brands. He finds passion and fulfillment in creating content that enhances, improves, and enlivens others' quality of life. All of his written work is formulated to not only offer essential advice and tips but back it with proven studies and experts. His mission is to connect with readers and provide steps to make their lives better.
You can connect with him on LinkedIn here.
About Carex Health Brands
Carex is your one-stop shop for home medical equipment and for products that assist caregivers with providing the best possible support and care for their loved ones. Carex Health Brands has been the branded leader in in-home, self-care medical products for over 35 years. Our goal is to improve the lives of our customers by bring them quality products that bring dignity back to their lives. With our three nationally distributed brands, Carex Health Brands serves national, regional and independent food, drug and mass retailers along with wholesalers, distributors and medical dealers.