winter • holiday • depression • stress • Newsletter • Health & Wellness • 2 min read • Dec 15, 2015 12:00:00 AM • Written by: Kat Smith
While the holiday season should be a joyous one, it may be a tough time if you are dealing with seasonal depression, which can have a number of causes in the wintertime. If you are feeling extra stress, anxiety, sadness, or guilt through the holidays, you might consider seeking help for depression to let you see an improvement in your mood and make the most of the season.
Causes of seasonal mood disorders
People who live in northern areas of the United States are likely to experience seasonal affective disorder, which occurs when days are short and sunshine is limited. Seeing the sun is important for your emotional and mental wellness for a number of reasons, including regulation of your circadian rhythm and exposure to vitamin D. Along with shorter days, there are some other possible causes of winter depression, such as the stress of spending extra money on holiday gifts or the anxiety of balancing a busy schedule of holiday events.
Seeking help for winter depression
Seasonal depression should not be overlooked, since it can have a real impact on your relationships, mood, and overall health. If you are struggling with depression, you will want to speak with your doctor about your symptoms to learn if medication may help. When seasonal affective disorder is behind your blues, dietary supplements and alternative therapies such as light therapy may be helpful as well.
Managing depression with holistic solutions
While it is important to talk to your doctor about depression, you can take steps to improve how you feel throughout the holiday season. Eating a balanced diet—especially in between large holiday feasts—can help you feel more energized to incorporate more exercise into your routine, which will in turn fight stress. Using smart communication tactics around family members who raise your stress level can also be helpful in managing your mood. Finally, you might take on a hobby like yoga or meditation, which will offer a period of quiet reflection amidst the chaos of the season.
