seasonal depression Archives - yourdailysportfix.com yourdailysportfix.com Wed, 25 Oct 2023 17:43:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://yourdailysportfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cropped-FAVICON_2-32x32.png seasonal depression Archives - yourdailysportfix.com 32 32 How to Deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder https://yourdailysportfix.com/how-to-deal-with-seasonal-affective-disorder/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 12:38:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=24139 Winter will be here in just a matter of weeks, and as much as we’re looking forward to celebrating the holidays, we can’t say we’re too excited about the three months of cold, dark weather that we’ll have to endure post-New Year. According to science, we’re not alone—research suggests that around 10 million Americans suffer […]

The post How to Deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Winter will be here in just a matter of weeks, and as much as we’re looking forward to celebrating the holidays, we can’t say we’re too excited about the three months of cold, dark weather that we’ll have to endure post-New Year. According to science, we’re not alone—research suggests that around 10 million Americans suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs at the same time each year, typically during winter. While there isn’t a cure for SAD, there are strategies that can help to manage and mitigate its effects.

Light Therapy

Exposure to sunlight is crucial for regulating the body’s circadian rhythm and can even increase production of serotonin in the brain. For those who experience seasonal depression, one of the most widely recommended treatments is light therapy, which involves sitting in front of a special box that emits full-spectrum light designed to mimic the sun. Just 30 minutes to an hour each day can help regulate your body’s internal clock and improve mood.

Regular Exercise

Exercise releases endorphins, or “feel good” hormones that relieve stress and enhance mood. If you’re able, aim to get in at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or just dancing around to your favorite music. Outdoor exercise during daylight hours is even better, as it comes with the added benefit of exposure to sunlight.

Stick to Routine

Our bodies thrive on routine, and disruptions to daily activities caused by poor weather can seriously exacerbate SAD symptoms. Stick to a regular sleep schedule that includes waking up at the same time each day, and do your best to follow a balanced diet filled with plenty of protein and healthy fats. It’s also important to make time for activities that bring you joy—anything that creates a sense of structure and control can reduce the effects of seasonal depression.

The post How to Deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> What are SAD Lamps and Should You Try One? https://yourdailysportfix.com/what-are-sad-lamps-and-should-you-try-one/ Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:22:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=21261 Daylight Savings Time is over, the air is getting colder, and winter will be here before we know it. Months of darkness and cold weather have a tendency to cause many people to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, a condition that creates symptoms such as lethargy, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. While it’s always best to speak […]

The post What are SAD Lamps and Should You Try One? appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Daylight Savings Time is over, the air is getting colder, and winter will be here before we know it. Months of darkness and cold weather have a tendency to cause many people to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, a condition that creates symptoms such as lethargy, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. While it’s always best to speak with your doctor about which treatments are right for you, one option to consider is a light box, sometimes known as a SAD lamp.

SAD lamps can reduce symptoms by replicating the natural daylight that we often struggle to get enough of during the winter months. It’s typically recommended to use SAD lamps for about 30 minutes per day to maximize benefits, though exact times may vary depending on the lamp you choose and your doctor’s recommendations.

When choosing a SAD lamp, look for a model that emits at least 10,000 lux, the level of light intensity recommended for therapeutic effects. We also recommend going with a model that includes a UV filter, as UV light can damage the eyes. Below are some models we’ve tried and liked.

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus

This lamp provides the recommended 10,000 lux while blocking 99.3% of UV light. The lamp face is a bit large at 13×16 inches, though the height and angle are adjustable.

HappyLight Halo by Verilux

If convenience and aesthetics are a priority for you, we recommend this cordless option. It offers the same 10,000 lux as other Verilux lamps, is UV-free, and even includes a built-in timer.

The post What are SAD Lamps and Should You Try One? appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> The Winter Blues are a Real Thing https://yourdailysportfix.com/the-winter-blues-are-a-real-thing/ Fri, 18 Nov 2022 08:32:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=21135 Colder climes and shorter days mean more time snuggled in bed, watching Netflix. After all, who wants to go out when temperatures hit below zero and even the sun goes to sleep at 5PM?! Staying home may seem like the natural thing to do when winter arrives, but if you’re feeling more lethargic than usual, […]

The post The Winter Blues are a Real Thing appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Colder climes and shorter days mean more time snuggled in bed, watching Netflix. After all, who wants to go out when temperatures hit below zero and even the sun goes to sleep at 5PM?! Staying home may seem like the natural thing to do when winter arrives, but if you’re feeling more lethargic than usual, it could be a sign of something more. 

There is a real condition that exists called Season Affective Disorder (SAD). Essentially, it is a form of depression that is triggered by a decrease in sunshine as bright light tends to stimulate the release of the feel-good hormone serotonin. Less sunshine also means less vitamin D which has also been linked to depression. 

Things to look out for with SAD include constantly feeling tired and the need to hibernate, avoiding social interactions, overeating and craving carbs, and not being able to keep up with your regular routine. 

If you’ve been experiencing these symptoms, there are some things you can do to tide you over till summer.

Check Your Sunshine Vitamin

Consider getting your vitamin D levels checked through a blood test. If they are low, supplements can help boost them, along with adding vitamin D-rich foods to your diet. 

See the Light

Ever heard of light therapy? It involves sitting under a therapy lamp for a few minutes every morning to make up for the lack of sunlight. 

Talk to Someone

There is no reason to be ashamed for seeking help with mental health. You wouldn’t think twice about going for a consistent cough. If the symptoms of depression persist for more than 2 weeks, talk to a mental health professional.  

The post The Winter Blues are a Real Thing appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> seasonal depression Archives - yourdailysportfix.com yourdailysportfix.com Wed, 25 Oct 2023 17:43:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://yourdailysportfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cropped-FAVICON_2-32x32.png seasonal depression Archives - yourdailysportfix.com 32 32 How to Deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder https://yourdailysportfix.com/how-to-deal-with-seasonal-affective-disorder/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 12:38:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=24139 Winter will be here in just a matter of weeks, and as much as we’re looking forward to celebrating the holidays, we can’t say we’re too excited about the three months of cold, dark weather that we’ll have to endure post-New Year. According to science, we’re not alone—research suggests that around 10 million Americans suffer […]

The post How to Deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Winter will be here in just a matter of weeks, and as much as we’re looking forward to celebrating the holidays, we can’t say we’re too excited about the three months of cold, dark weather that we’ll have to endure post-New Year. According to science, we’re not alone—research suggests that around 10 million Americans suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs at the same time each year, typically during winter. While there isn’t a cure for SAD, there are strategies that can help to manage and mitigate its effects.

Light Therapy

Exposure to sunlight is crucial for regulating the body’s circadian rhythm and can even increase production of serotonin in the brain. For those who experience seasonal depression, one of the most widely recommended treatments is light therapy, which involves sitting in front of a special box that emits full-spectrum light designed to mimic the sun. Just 30 minutes to an hour each day can help regulate your body’s internal clock and improve mood.

Regular Exercise

Exercise releases endorphins, or “feel good” hormones that relieve stress and enhance mood. If you’re able, aim to get in at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or just dancing around to your favorite music. Outdoor exercise during daylight hours is even better, as it comes with the added benefit of exposure to sunlight.

Stick to Routine

Our bodies thrive on routine, and disruptions to daily activities caused by poor weather can seriously exacerbate SAD symptoms. Stick to a regular sleep schedule that includes waking up at the same time each day, and do your best to follow a balanced diet filled with plenty of protein and healthy fats. It’s also important to make time for activities that bring you joy—anything that creates a sense of structure and control can reduce the effects of seasonal depression.

The post How to Deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> What are SAD Lamps and Should You Try One? https://yourdailysportfix.com/what-are-sad-lamps-and-should-you-try-one/ Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:22:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=21261 Daylight Savings Time is over, the air is getting colder, and winter will be here before we know it. Months of darkness and cold weather have a tendency to cause many people to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, a condition that creates symptoms such as lethargy, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. While it’s always best to speak […]

The post What are SAD Lamps and Should You Try One? appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Daylight Savings Time is over, the air is getting colder, and winter will be here before we know it. Months of darkness and cold weather have a tendency to cause many people to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, a condition that creates symptoms such as lethargy, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. While it’s always best to speak with your doctor about which treatments are right for you, one option to consider is a light box, sometimes known as a SAD lamp.

SAD lamps can reduce symptoms by replicating the natural daylight that we often struggle to get enough of during the winter months. It’s typically recommended to use SAD lamps for about 30 minutes per day to maximize benefits, though exact times may vary depending on the lamp you choose and your doctor’s recommendations.

When choosing a SAD lamp, look for a model that emits at least 10,000 lux, the level of light intensity recommended for therapeutic effects. We also recommend going with a model that includes a UV filter, as UV light can damage the eyes. Below are some models we’ve tried and liked.

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus

This lamp provides the recommended 10,000 lux while blocking 99.3% of UV light. The lamp face is a bit large at 13×16 inches, though the height and angle are adjustable.

HappyLight Halo by Verilux

If convenience and aesthetics are a priority for you, we recommend this cordless option. It offers the same 10,000 lux as other Verilux lamps, is UV-free, and even includes a built-in timer.

The post What are SAD Lamps and Should You Try One? appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> The Winter Blues are a Real Thing https://yourdailysportfix.com/the-winter-blues-are-a-real-thing/ Fri, 18 Nov 2022 08:32:00 +0000 https://yourdailysportfix.com/?p=21135 Colder climes and shorter days mean more time snuggled in bed, watching Netflix. After all, who wants to go out when temperatures hit below zero and even the sun goes to sleep at 5PM?! Staying home may seem like the natural thing to do when winter arrives, but if you’re feeling more lethargic than usual, […]

The post The Winter Blues are a Real Thing appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]> Colder climes and shorter days mean more time snuggled in bed, watching Netflix. After all, who wants to go out when temperatures hit below zero and even the sun goes to sleep at 5PM?! Staying home may seem like the natural thing to do when winter arrives, but if you’re feeling more lethargic than usual, it could be a sign of something more. 

There is a real condition that exists called Season Affective Disorder (SAD). Essentially, it is a form of depression that is triggered by a decrease in sunshine as bright light tends to stimulate the release of the feel-good hormone serotonin. Less sunshine also means less vitamin D which has also been linked to depression. 

Things to look out for with SAD include constantly feeling tired and the need to hibernate, avoiding social interactions, overeating and craving carbs, and not being able to keep up with your regular routine. 

If you’ve been experiencing these symptoms, there are some things you can do to tide you over till summer.

Check Your Sunshine Vitamin

Consider getting your vitamin D levels checked through a blood test. If they are low, supplements can help boost them, along with adding vitamin D-rich foods to your diet. 

See the Light

Ever heard of light therapy? It involves sitting under a therapy lamp for a few minutes every morning to make up for the lack of sunlight. 

Talk to Someone

There is no reason to be ashamed for seeking help with mental health. You wouldn’t think twice about going for a consistent cough. If the symptoms of depression persist for more than 2 weeks, talk to a mental health professional.  

The post The Winter Blues are a Real Thing appeared first on yourdailysportfix.com.

]]>