There are certain people who suffer from depression when winter comes. These symptoms are commonly known as the winter blues, although the condition is medically known as the SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder. Those who suffer from this condition tend to become moody, depressed, stress and lethargic when the winter season comes. This can worsen our stress leading the increase the chance of one of the worse case scenario which is getting Flare Ups for those who suffers Eczema! Learn more on the negative effects of Stress on Eczema here.
As a definition, the Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that’s linked to the changing of the season. Usually, the symptoms start to appear around the start of November and will disappear during the spring season.
If you think you suffer from of the symptoms of SAD, here are some tips on how you can boost your mood and fight off the symptoms of winter blues.
Stay Active
When the weather is cold, it can be difficult for a lot of people to pull themselves out of bed. However, try to keep yourself active. Force yourself to go to work even if you don’t feel like it. Exercise as often as you can because exercising will make your body release endorphins that can help minimize the depression symptoms. So hit the gym or go running if possible.
Practice a New Hobby
Again, do something that you love or enjoy. If you have a hobby, then indulge in it. It could be singing, dancing, gardening, painting, etc. Don’t deprive yourself of things that you love to do so you will not feel depressed. If you practice hobbies, you’ll be able to keep yourself busy and you’ll forget about feeling sad and lonely.
Focus on Positive Things
Always look for the good things in everything. People who suffer from SAD tend to be negative all the time. Instead of focusing on the bad things, remember all the good things that have happened in your life. This can somehow help improve your mood and minimize the symptoms of depression.
Talk to Other People
Don’t hesitate to talk to someone about how you feel. Look for a friend or a family member whom you trust and open up about your feelings. It would really help to have someone you can share your feelings with.
Use Lights
We all have to deal with dark and gloomy mornings in winter and this could make people feel even more depressed. So, try to make your surroundings as bright as possible by turning the lamps on. This can somehow help to lift your mood. In case you didn’t know, dark environments have the tendency to make people feel unhappy. If possible, get lamps that can mimic the natural light outdoors.
Spoil Yourself
Go out and spoil yourself whenever you feel like you are about to get depressed. Watch movies, go shopping, party with friends, or do anything that you love. Doing something you love can make you feel happy and make you forget about your winter blues.
