As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many of us begin to experience a dip in their mood and energy levels.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re hibernating through the winter, waiting for spring to bring back your energy and joy, you’re not alone. This experience is known as Seasonal Depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It can impact your daily life, making it harder to enjoy activities, stay productive, and maintain healthy relationships.
If you find yourself struggling with the winter blues, you’re not alone.
Symptoms of Seasonal Depression (SAD)
Symptoms of Seasonal Depression or SAD can vary from person to person but commonly include:
- Low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite, especially craving for foods high in carbohydrates
- Weight gain
- Increased sleep
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Social withdrawal
Why Do So Many of Us Struggle During Winter?
Our bodies and minds are deeply influenced by natural light cycles. Even in sunny South Africa, the reduced sunlight in winter can disrupt our internal clocks and affect your mood.
The good news is that there are effective strategies you can use to lift your spirits and regain your energy. Here are 6 practical steps to help you beat SAD and make the most of the colder months.
Try to get more Natural Light:
One of the main causes of Seasonal Depression is reduced exposure to sunlight, which can disrupt your circadian rhythm and affect your mood. To counteract this, try to get as much natural light as possible during the day. Open your curtains, sit near windows, and spend time outdoors, especially during midday when the sun is brightest.
Stay Active:
Regular physical activity is a powerful mood booster. Exercise releases endorphins, which can help alleviate feelings of depression. Cardiovascular exercises, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling, are particularly effective. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a dance class, find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your routine.
Maintain a Healthy Diet:
Your diet can significantly impact your mood and energy levels. During the colder months, it’s common to crave comfort foods like sweets, pastries, and refined carbs. While these can provide temporary relief, they often lead to energy crashes and worsen the symptoms of Seasonal Depression.
Instead, focus on a balanced diet:
- Healthy fats: Swap out saturated and trans fats for healthier fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil.
- Limit caffeine: While caffeine can give you a temporary boost, too much can impact your sleep patterns. Opt for herbal teas instead, and make them more warming and comforting with slices of ginger and lemon.
- Avoid sugar: Sugary foods can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes. Replace them with whole natural foods like sweet potatoes and roasted carrots that are naturally sweet and high in fibre and nutrients to regulate blood sugar levels.
Social Connection:
Stay connected with friends and family, even if it’s through virtual means. Social interaction and emotional support is crucial for mental health. Spending time with friends or simply having a conversation can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing symptoms of SAD, as socialising can provide a positive mood boost.
Find something to Celebrate:
Many cultures around the world celebrate festivals during the shortest days or winter months to bring light and joy into the dark season. While these celebrations often occur in December in the Northern Hemisphere, in South Africa, you can still embrace the idea of bringing light into your life during the winter months. We think this all sounds like a great reason to celebrate Christmas in July.
Get a Sunrise Lamp:
If you are battling with your willpower in the mornings, consider using a light therapy lamp or sunrise lamp, and try to stick to a consistent bedtime and wake time. These lamps simulate the sunrise, gently waking you up, which can be more soothing than a loud alarm, and it helps to suppress your levels of melatonin making you feel less tired.
Reach out for support
If you’re finding it difficult to manage SAD on your own, don’t hesitate to seek support. If left untreated, SAD can spiral into depression, so grab a few tips and tricks from this list, but don’t be afraid to reach out if you need help.
A psychologist can provide strategies to identify the root causes of SAD and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Jeanette Dreyer, a highly respected psychologist with over 25 years of experience, offers compassionate and effective guidance tailored to your unique needs. She can assist you in understanding your condition and finding the best strategies to overcome it.
Remember, you don’t have to face SAD alone. Start with small, manageable changes and build from there. Your mental health matters, and taking steps to improve it is a sign of strength and resilience.