Do you get depressed during the winter? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a kind of depression that occurs during the cold, dark days of winter. Decreased daylight, frigid temperatures and a lot of snow, can affect how you feel.
It's not uncommon, when suffering from SAD, to feel tired and depressed. People with SAD sleep more, eat more and sometimes withdraw socially.
Do people from Buffalo suffer from SAD? Some do. Buffalo gets a lot of snow, with frequent blizzards and below zero temperatures. Add that to our shortened daylight hours and it's a recipe for SAD.
How can you help yourself if you suffer from SAD?
- Try to bundle up and get outside everyday, even if it's for a short period of time. Being in daylight will help your mood.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes 5 times a week. Exercise boosts endorphins - the "feel good" hormones.
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetables and try to stay away from high calorie, high fat snacks. SAD is associated with weight gain.
- Talk to people. Don't become a shut-in. Find something social to do.
- If you are suffering from severe depression, see a healthcare professional.
Honor and Hope Wellness Center is also offering a workshop on beating the Winter Blues.
Saturday Dec. 5, 2009
11:00AM
Honor & Hope
38 Lake St.
Hamburg NY
Call 716-649-9004 to register for seating
Presented by :
Kristine Noonan RN CHHC
Board Certified Health Counselor
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