Two out of five people in the U.S. suffer from depression. Millions are especially impacted by seasonal affective disorder or SAD.
Colder temps, shorter days, gloomier skies -- it all contributes to seasonal affective disorder. SAD affects one in 20 people in the U.S., so how can you stay motivated?
Here are some tips to help you cope with the feelings that come with the season.
“Putting the right people around you, putting positive people around you. Those things are gonna bring us joy, fulfillment, contentment,” said licensed mental health expert James West.
Doctors suggest spending 30 to 60 minutes out in the sun each day and making sure you get enough vitamin D-3 to combat depression.
Aromatherapy, particularly sandalwood oil, tea tree oil, lavender oil and lemon oil are all known to be mood boosters. Working out at least 30 minutes a day is a proven depression fighter. Experts says yoga, tai chi, walking, swimming and running are particularly helpful.
But if these methods don’t work for you, when should you see a doctor?
“If you’re depressed, you’re not wanting to eat right, you’re not wanting to go to work, you’re not wanting to go out with friends, you’re isolating,” West said.
If depressed feelings last for more than a week, it’s time to get professional help.
There are many reasons SAD affects people, but time change is the most common. It impacts our internal clocks, throwing them off and causing us to feel more tired.
Dawn simulators can help, these types of alarm clocks wake you up by gradually lighting up your room, mimicking natural lighting to encourage a calm wake-up.