Winter is a cold and dreary time of year, and it's not always easy to function. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD as it's commonly known, is a form of depression that usually begins in late fall or early winter and starts to fade as the weather improves. It puts a damper on people's mental health, causing symptoms of depression, irritability, laziness, and trouble waking up in the morning. SAD can affect anyone, including children. Everyone experiences these symptoms differently but there's usually something that will help. Below are 5 remedies to try:
Go outside
It's helpful to go outside and enjoy daylight and nature as much as possible. I know, some days are unbearably dark and gloomy outside, so avoid going out on those days. But whenever the sun is shining, go outdoors and enjoy it! Physical activity is another way to relieve the winter blues. Even something as simple as going for a walk in the middle of the day can improve your mood. If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, plan a weekend hike with family or friends. Grab a backpack like this 3 Day Gear Bag from Condor to load everything you'll need for outdoor fun.
Eat healthy
Sometimes candy and junk foods can give us temporary relief. Ultimately, however, those sorts of empty carbohydrates only increase feelings of loneliness and depression, so avoid them. Eating a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, will boost your mood, give you more energy, and may even help you lose weight over the winter.
Keep warm
It may seem obvious, but staying warm in the winter is important, not just for your physical health but also for your mental health. Being cold just makes you feel sadder, so keep warm with hot drinks, warm clothes and shoes. Consider adding a stylish Warm Polar Fleece Blanket to your home for those late nights on the couch.
Make time for family and friends
Being alone will only make you lonelier. So make plans with friends, go out and have some fun! It will get your mind off other things. Plus it will remind you that you have people in your life who care about you and will help you. You can also consider seeing a doctor if necessary. Talking things through with a mental health professional can help you cope with symptoms.
Adopt a pet
Winter is often the hardest time of the year for local shelters. There are plenty of good dogs and cats in need of a warm home this winter, why not consider adopting one? Having a furry friend can make the long, cold days seem much cozier. Plus you'll fell good because you're helping an animal in need. If you plan on getting a pet (or you already have one), be sure to check out the K9 First Aid Kit. It contains everything you'll need to keep your pet safe and warm this winter.
If one of these remedies doesn't work, don't give up! Keep trying until you find something that works for you. Maybe find a new show to watch, or a new album to listen to. Be open to new ideas and eventually you'll be able to cope with the winter blues. And remember—Spring is right around the corner.
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