Tips on Seasonal Depression Strategies

Season Depression Strategies

As the hours of daylight slowly disappear and winter approaches, many individuals find themselves fighting seasonal depression. The colder, shorter days and darker months can take a toll on mental well-being, but let us talk about a few strategies to lessen the impact. Dr. Aaron Workman of one of the highest rated auto injury care facilities in the Lexington area discusses five tips to navigate seasonal depression as winter awaits just around the corner.

1. Let the Sunshine:

One of the primary contributors to seasonal depression is the reduction in natural sunlight during the winter months. Being out in the sunlight helps naturally regulate the body’s internal clock. That natural light also helps with the production of certain hormones that assist with your mood. Make a conscious effort to spend time outdoors, especially during daylight hours. Take short walks, sit by a window, and get some sunshine on your face. Open your curtains or blinds and get as much light flowing through your house as possible.

2. Establish a Consistent Routine:

This time of year can impact your regular routines, leading to irregular sleep patterns and reduced physical activity, both of which can contribute to feelings of lethargy and sadness. It may be dark when you go to work, and dark when you arrive home so finding and establishing a consistent routine for the new daylight hours is important. Sleep is a great place to start.  Set and keep a regular sleep schedule, try to eat around the same time and find physical activities you will enjoy this time of year. Consistency helps regulate the body’s internal clock giving yourself a sense of well-being and stability.

3. Stay “In Touch”:

Social isolation can worsen feelings of depression. This is a vicious cycle that will only promote more isolation. Few may enjoy their usual summer activities when the temperature takes a nosedive, but it is essential to stay connected with friends and family. Plan indoor activities for this particular time of year, have short get-togethers and maybe even add in a game night you can enjoy.

4. Bring the Outside Inside:

If part of your daily routine has anything to do with flower beds or gardening, bring those activities inside on a smaller scale. Plants can provide a variety of activities and responsibilities to keep you active throughout the day. Plants and flowers can link us to nature and typically give some vibrance to our home which may help with mood enhancement. Find one container vegetable you can grow in a small place, do some research, and just get started.

5. Engage in Winter Activities:

Rather than dreading the winter season, embrace it by participating in activities that make the most of the colder weather. Whether it is skiing, ice skating, or simply taking a snowy walk in the park, engaging in winter activities can shift your perspective and create positive feelings with the season. Physical activity also releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.

Seasonal depression is a common condition you can find relief from. By incorporating even one of these tips into your routine, you can help yourself get through the winter months and maintain your mental well-being. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance and support.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

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Have you been in a car accident? If you or somebody you know has been in a car accident, be sure that you seek medical attention from a car accident doctor or car accident chiropractor to treat your injuries. Visit Chambers Medical Group  to receive world-class medical treatment for your injuries.

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