Managing Seasonal Lows

...What many refer to as winter blues, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD)—you may be familiar with feeling less than your best when gloomy days outnumber bright ones. The cause of this type of depression, which most often strikes in darker months, isn’t exactly known—which can make addressing it a challenge.

But light is certainly at the root: When time in the sun is limited, mood-influencing hormones and chemicals can be affected. Your levels of vitamin D, a nutrient made by the body when exposed to sunlight, may also dip and contribute to how you're feeling.

It’s clear, then, why you may have been told to get outside as much as you can. Your doctor may have also recommended light therapy (also known as phototherapy)—the use of a device that emits close-to-natural light, allowing you more convenient exposure over the course of your day. (It’s effective: More than half of people with seasonal depression who opt for it improve all their symptoms, according to an analysis of several studies.)

Still, it can be frustrating. You may find ways to soak in more rays only to be left coping with the same feelings of hopelessness, lack of energy, and other symptoms. If you’re still not feeling yourself, consider exploring additional ways to lift your mood. Giving some new solutions a try may bring renewed hope—even the help you seek.

Exercise Regularly

Though not a groundbreaking tip for overall wellness, many don’t think of working out as a way to improve their seasonal lows—especially when it, along with cold weather, may leave you just wanting to lounge under a blanket. But studies show that working out alleviates symptoms in people with depression, most likely by stimulating the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which directly improves mood.

The outcome is thought to ring true for people with winter mood changes, too. Even a single exercise session—at any intensity—can both increase positive feelings and decrease negative ones, according to researchers.

Eat Well

Nutrition is a cornerstone of overall well-being, but it may also play a specific role in improving winter doldrums. For example, omega-3s—found in fatty fish and nuts—help keep your brain and nerves healthy, and some studies say that those who consume a diet rich in these fatty acids have less incidence of seasonal lows.

Simple carbohydrates (think sugary cereals, white bread, etc.) may also exacerbate mood highs and lows, because they cause fluctuations in blood sugar. Though your feelings may drive you to crave foods that fall outside of your healthy eating plan, do what you can to stay true to it.

Engage the Mind-Body Connection

Practices such as acupuncture, yoga, guided imagery, meditation and massage can be helpful in improving sleep quality, reducing stress and taming anxiety, all symptoms commonly experienced by people with this seasonal sadness. Work to make one or more of these options a regular part of your lifestyle.

Hit “Pause”

Sleep enhances mood and alleviates depression, so make proper rest a priority, and talk to your doctor if you’re having trouble getting your Zzzzs. You might also consider fall and early winter a time to rest, particularly if you are someone who often “burns the candle at both ends."

Ayurveda teaches us that doing too much during this time of year can contribute to depression and anxiety. Some constitutions may also benefit from visiting warm climates in the winter.

Consider Supplements & Herbs

A blood test can determine if your vitamin D levels are low enough to warrant supplementation. Melatonin supplements may also help regulate mood; a change in seasons can alter your natural level of this hormone.

Though research on herbs’ effect on SAD is limited, they have been shown to help take the painful sting out of depression. St. John’s wort may be effective in mild-to-moderate cases, for example.

Discuss such options with your doctor to see if they're right for you. Remember to ask for a recommendation for a reputable brand, since herbs and supplements aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Connect

You may feel withdrawn, but pushing yourself to connect with people can help. The positivity and support of others can truly be infectious, distracting you from negative feelings and boosting self-worth.

Avoid Alcohol

Some researchers suspect that alcoholics have seasonal patterns to their abuse of alcohol, with misuse worsening during winter months. Even if you don’t regularly consume alcohol, consider avoiding it altogether if you’re feeling blue, since it can make depressive thoughts worse over time.