Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, affects approximately 5% of the U.S. population. Symptoms can include those of Major Depressive Disorder, but can also include oversleeping, or hypersomnia (think of ‘hybernation’), overeating which can lead to weight gain, and socially withdrawing from friends and family. SAD can also be correlated with low Vitamin D levels, as many individuals reduce their time outside during the fall and winter and are not receiving Vitamin D from being in the sun. So, what can you do to help cope with SAD? Going for a brief walk (while dressed according to weather, of course) can help in getting up and active as well as receiving some Vitamin D. Exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet can aid in maintaining weight. The sweet treats around the holidays make it difficult and it is okay to indulge! Remember to eat in moderation. Continue to engage with friends and family! It may be cold but spending time with others melts away the SAD.
Self-Care and Holiday Stress
The holidays can be stressful and it’s a time where we forget to take care of ourselves because we are worrying about travel plans, gift buying, and overall trying to have a great season. That is why self-care is important, even when it’s a time of joy and fun. Even though we worry about others during this time, it’s important to take moments to focus on you!
*Take breaks! It’s important through the holiday festivities to take breaks, to relieve some of the stress and focus on yourself.
*Get out and socialize! As humans, we are social beings and remaining indoors can be stressful! Go have a lunch date with friends or do an indoor activity to spend time with others.
*Make supportive food choices! The holidays are filled with so many goodies and festivities, and it’s hard to not take part. It’s okay to take part in the traditional foods that are made this time of year. Just be sure to balance your food with healthy options as well.
*Drink plenty of water! Yes, it is cold outside and we may not be as enticed to drink water as we are in the warmer months, but you are still able to become dehydrated without an appropriate amount of water. Water helps maintain body temperature, which helps us stay warm. Our brains are also made up of water, and without enough water, our mood, energy levels, and mental performance are impacted. It also helps with keeping the pesky winter weight off by boosting your metabolism!
Important Dates
The Center for Balanced Living will be closed on the following dates:
December 24th & , 25th, & December 256th
Please inform your clinician if you will be traveling for the holidays, need to reschedule, or will be unable to attend sessions for scheduling purposes.
