Sometimes, the feelings of depression and fatigue don’t add up this time of year. When the streets are lined
with twinkling lights and holiday fun, why is your mood just now taking a turn for the worse?
It’s not uncommon for a sense of gloom to settle in as the days grow shorter and the weather colder. It’s like,
no matter how much holiday spirit is in the air, the chill in the air prevails.
For some, this may be more than just the winter blues – it may be a form of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).SAD is a type of depression generally occurring in the fall and winter. Less natural sunlight can cause symptoms like fatigue, low energy, hopelessness, and social withdrawal in those with SAD. If your mood noticeably changes with the seasons, as it does for many people living in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest, here are a few tips to help lift your spirits again.
Get outside.
Getting enough sun exposure during the fall and winter can be difficult. If you live in Seattle, Washington, we
know you can relate. Still, even on cloudy days, some of the sun’s rays can penetrate the clouds and provide
your body with vitamin D.
So if you’re feeling down, bundle up and take a walk around the block or stand outside for a few minutes daily
and take some deep breaths of fresh air. Don’t forget there is always hope – and sunshine – just around the
corner.
Stay active.
Just 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day can help to improve your energy levels, mood, and
sleep quality.
Whether or not you’re feeling up for a trip to the gym, there are plenty of other ways to get active. From a yoga
class to a brisk walk, a little movement can have a big impact. And don’t forget, you can always exercise at
home with a good old-fashioned workout video.
Eat a diet that fuels your mind and body.
If you’re not too keen on the word “diet,” we don’t blame you. But remember, diet is just a term to describe what
you are or should be consuming. So as the colder seasons approach us, it’s time to center your diet around
nutrition more than ever.
After all, eating nutritious foods helps your body function at its best, which can positively impact your mood. So,
if it helps, don’t think about it as a “diet”; consider your food intake positive energy for your body and mind. This
means plenty of veggies, fruits, and whole grains, with a limit on sugary foods that can make you feel even
more sluggish.
Absorb more vitamin D.
The body produces vitamin D in response to sunlight, which helps regulate mood and energy levels. As such,
one way to help boost your mood during the winter is to ensure you get enough Vitamin D.
If you aren’t absorbing adequate vitamin D by spending time outdoors in natural sunlight, ensure you get
enough in your diet or a supplement. Be sure to eat up this winter when it comes to foods rich in vitamin D,
such as salmon, eggs, and fortified dairy products!
Try light therapy.
If you live in an area like Seattle with long winters and limited sunlight, light therapy may be worth considering
as a way to boost your mood and make it through the season.
Light therapy involves exposure to artificial light, typically for a set period daily, using a special lamp designed
for this purpose. Light therapy lamps simulate the effects of natural sunlight to stimulate the production of
serotonin and improve mood.
Explore TMS therapy.
Season Affective Disorder can leave you exhausted, stressed out, and down in the dumps—but there is hope!
TMS therapy is a non-invasive depression treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain regions
responsible for regulating mood. TMS therapy is FDA-cleared and has been proven to be an effective
treatment for depression with minimal side effects.
Living in Seattle Can Be Gloomy This Time of Year…but TMS Washington Can Help!
If you live in Seattle, you know the weather here can be particularly dreary this time of year. The grey skies and cold temperatures can wear down even the most positive, festive person. If you’re struggling with SAD or depression this winter, don’t hesitate to contact us at TMS Washington. We’re here to help you feel better before the holidays, so schedule a consultation today!
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