Seasonal Affective Disorder
As the weather gets colder and the sun rises later and sets sooner, you might find yourself feeling a little down and out. It's completely normal to have some days when you feel sluggish and unmotivated, but if you feel this way for a longer period of time, are losing interest in activities you once loved, or have low energy and trouble sleeping, you might have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Mayo Clinic defines SAD as a "type of depression that's related to changes in seasons," with symptoms that "appear during late fall or early winter and go away during the sunnier days of spring and summer."
Treatments for SAD can include light therapy, talk therapy, medication, mindfulness, meditation, or guided imagery. Some home remedies that might help include:
making your environment brighter
open blinds and sit close to bright windows
get natural sunlight if you can
exercise regularly to relieve stress and anxiety
maintain connections with friends and loved ones in your social circle
If feelings of depression and anxiety are affecting your daily life, be sure to share your symptoms with a medical professional.
