Winter Woes

Do you feel depressed or moody during the winter months?  You are not alone! Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) only affects about 4-6% of the U.S. population, but as many as 12-15% have milder season related mood changes according to CNN in a 2011 study.  SAD is characterized as a type of depression that occurs every year at the same time.  A person with SAD may often feel more moody, less energy and depressed during the winter months.  SAD most commonly affects females and those in areas further from the equator that deal with more dramatic season changes.

What to do if you don't have SAD, but still feel down in the dumps?  There are many legitimate reasons for a mood and energy shift with the seasons.

• Now that winter is upon us, we are further from the sun which decreases our vitamin D3 intake.
• It's cold!  Many people don't like the cold which puts a sour taste in their mouth as soon as winter approaches.
• Less activity.  Running, biking and other outdoor activities take the plummet as soon as the cold strikes.  With less activity we aren't creating those happy endorphin's running through our blood streams = cranky people.

• Light Boxes: Light therapy is the number one way to improve the blues during the winter.  These cleaver little boxes imitate sun exposure (minus the UV) so your brain increases happy chemicals and improves mood.
• GET ACTIVE:  As much as you dread hitting the gym in the winter, DO IT!  Regardless of how tired you are, activity will improve your mood AND your immune system!
• Supplements: Vitamin D3, as I've mentioned before is a great mood booster.  Omega-3's have also been shown to help with anxiety.
• Socialize: Don't keep yourself in a box.  Get out on socialize with happy people.  Surrounding yourself with their energy will help improve yours!