Spring has officially arrived! Sunflowers are out; the birds have begun chirping, and nature appears to be in a good mood, if you don’t fully feel the new change there are a few ways to change that.
This is the season of new beginnings, renewal, growth and hope, unfortunately not many have adapted yet. This is often because the short days, cold nights, and wet whether conditions may continue to influence you – the reason for this could be because you might still be stuck in a winter slump.
Being in a winter slump is more than just about struggling to adapt to new seasonal changes, it is much deeper than that.
According to the reputable medical wellness publication, Mayo Clinic, this is also referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
“Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you’re like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in autumn and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody,” highlights the above-mentioned publication.
This is further supported by Sandy Lewis, Netcare 911’s mental wellness coach, who adds, “Researchers have suggested that our brains developed sensitivity to seasonal change as a survival mechanism during our evolution.”
Sandy explains that seasonal changes alter our brain chemistry, explaining that for most people the effects are manageable, but anyone with a known history of psychiatric illness could be at risk.
“In winter, shorter daylight hours stimulate the brain to produce more melatonin and less serotonin, which can result in the symptoms of depression emerging in predisposed individuals. In spring and summer, it is the opposite, and more serotonin is produced to the point of inducing mania in some people.”
Having SADs or it’s milder version known as “winter blues” comes with multiple symptoms.
These include:
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Sadness or depression
- Agitation and restlessness
- Insomnia
- Lack of concentration
- Stress
Fortunately, there are a number of ways through you can combat SAD, here are a few as recommended by Cleveland Clinic.
Light therapy – “Bright light therapy, using a special lamp, can help treat SAD,” recommends the above-mentioned source.
Talk it out – Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is more than just a chat. Research shows it’s one of the best long-term treatments for SAD, helping you change thought patterns that keep you stuck in the slump.
Head outdoors – Sunshine is nature’s antidepressant. A daily walk outside or even opening your curtains to let more daylight in can make a real difference.
Vitamin D – Because winter often lowers vitamin D levels, a supplement may help ease symptoms. Chat to your healthcare provider before starting one.
Also see: Conversations can change Mzansi’s tragic suicide narrative
