Grey skies and chilly wind making you feel irritated and depressed? You’re not the only one. According to Paul Susic, MA licensed psychologist, some form of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects 10-20% of the population. Though the causes aren’t known for sure, most evidence points to the lack of sunlight in the winter.
Since winter takes up a significant chunk of our year – why go through it depressed? Here are some easy at-home remedies to pick up your mood.
- Soak up that morning sun
Natural light is SAD’s fiercest combatant. Morning light can brighten your mood for the rest of your day. If you have an early class, make sure you can let in as much morning sunlight as possible while you’re getting ready. Eat breakfast in the sunniest part of your living space.
2. Exercise
Exercise pretty much cures everything. The endorphins released by your body can improve your mood in almost any situation and SAD is just another example.
3. Fake it until you make it
If you don’t actually live in the Bahamas, you can at least pretend you do! Fill your room with color and posters of sunny landscapes and escape from the misery outside.
4. Use your school’s resources
CAPS, the Counseling and Psychological Services at the Student Health Center, has free counseling services for students. They’re a great resource for stress, depression, or just letting off some steam. Visit http://www.virginia.edu/studenthealth/caps.html or call 434-243-5150for more information.
5. Stay on schedule
A daily routine with a regular sleep schedule can reduce your body’s stress keep your mood on the upswing.
http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/home-remedies-for-seasonal-affective-disorder1.htm
http://www.psychtreatment.com/seasonal_affective_disorder.htm
Picture Credits: