Hey Everyone,

As we move into the cooler months, let's chat about something super important: Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Think of it as the winter blues saying a quiet hello as the days get shorter and colder. Knowing what SAD is and how to handle it is not just helpful; it's really important. Usually, feeling different can happen because of a big change or sad event, like losing someone we love or being tired and not getting enough light. But SAD is not just occasional—it sticks around more and is a bit tough to change. Understanding it can make a big difference in how we take care of ourselves.

But what's SAD?

Imagine feeling a bit down, tired, or grumpy during winter – that could be a sign of SAD. But it's not just a quick change in mood; it's something that needs attention. SAD goes beyond the usual "winter blues" and can make you feel not so great. About 5 out of every 100 adults in the U.S. feel this way because of SAD, and it usually lasts for about 40% of the year. More women tend to feel it than men (Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) 2023). Also, it's interesting to know that SAD is seen more in the Northern Region of the U.S. compared to the Southern Region. This is why many people choose to move to the South as a way to take better care of themselves, and sometimes this change in location helps them keep a positive attitude and maintain overall well-being.

Here are some things to pay attention to that if persist (and are not just occasional) may be SAD:

·Feeling sad or down a lot

·Getting more nervous or worried

·Wanting to eat lots of carbs and gaining weight

·Feeling super tired all the time

·Thinking sad or scary thoughts

·Having trouble paying attention

·Getting mad easily

·Arms and legs feeling heavy

·Not wanting to do things you used to enjoy

·Sleeping a lot

·Thinking about harming yourself

It's also good to know that low levels of Vitamin D and Melatonin can make SAD worse. So, talking to your doctor or someone who helps with your health is really important if you're feeling this way.

Now, let's do some things to feel better:

Don't let SAD take over. Talk to your doctor – that's the first important step. And try these simple tips to make you feel more positive:

·Make your space bright: Open your curtains, trim branches, or use a Light Therapy Lamp

·Go outside and enjoy nature

·Move around and play with your friends

·Get back to a good sleep routine

Ready to begin your winter wellness journey? Taking control of the winter blues is like stepping into a brighter season. Let's work together to beat those chilly feelings and make well-being our friend! Until next time, stay positive and take care!

Stay Well,

Dina Johnson, MS MFT-LP

Additional References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/in-depth/seasonal-affective-disorder-treatment/art-20048298

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4673349/

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/seasonal-affective-disorder

American Psychiatric Association. (2023). Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) . Psychiatry.org - Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Seasonal-Affective-Disorder

https://www.npr.org/2020/10/23/927135639/coping-with-sad-or-seasonal-affective-disorder