January 9, 2015

Winter Blues: Tips to Fight Seasonal Depression

Photo by A l on Unsplash

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of seasonal depression that usually occurs in individuals during the winter. Experts believe this mental health issue has to do with the lack of sunlight in the winter. It’s normal to feel a little less energetic when it’s cold and snowy, but for those who suffer from SAD, symptoms often make it difficult to get through the day.

A recent study conducted by scientists in Denmark showed that those affected by SAD had different levels of a certain protein in the brain. This protein is referred to as a “transporter protein”, and it’s responsible for maintaining serotonin levels. The new study confirms the belief that SAD is linked to less sun exposure – sunlight boosts your serotonin levels naturally, and without it, mood changes are common. Overall, most of the population is able to maintain enough serotonin through the winter, but SAD sufferers aren’t able to do that.

New Study: Second clinical trial on the use of BioCurcumin in people with depression

As many as one in six people suffer from SAD. If depression symptoms are getting you down this winter, here are some tips to lift your mood:

Increase Exposure to Natural Light

Sunlight seems to play a key role in SAD. Try to step outside whenever you can, or you can buy a light box for your home or office that provides the kind of bright rays that elevate your brain’s serotonin levels.

Get Moving

Exercise is a very under-utilized antidepressant! Get a good cardio workout in as often as possible. Exercise has been shown to raise serotonin levels, according to a study by Princeton University.

New Study: Fish Oil Capsules Help Major Depression

Massage

A good massage seems to increase serotonin levels as well, according to research from the University of Miami School of Medicine. A separate study in Taiwan showed that massage may have a significantly positive impact on depression symptoms.

Laugh it Out

It might take some effort if you’re feeling blue, but watching a funny movie or laughing with friends can have a great impact on your mood if you are depressed. Some studies have shown that laughter increases serotonin in the brain.

Get Cozy

Make sure that you have comfortable and warm surroundings in winter. This means fluffy blankets and warm clothes. This helps to ensure that your home is nice and toasty, to hopefully combat the winter blues!

Source:http://www.today.com/health/got-sad-5-proven-ways-deal-seasonal-affective-disorder-1D80274285