Cause For Winter Depression And Anxiety

Why do I feel more depressed and anxious in winter?
(16 Feb 2009)

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While most people look forward to the winter months, there are many who suffer on account of the weather changes. Some people suffer from significant depression that they normally do not experience during the other warmer months. This is actually quite a common condition, termed as Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.

The shorter days, low temperatures, reduced outdoor activity and holiday stress take their toll and are responsible for this condition. What you are experiencing therefore is quite normal and should not worry you too much. There are several steps that you can take however to counter the effects of winter on your psyche.

Dos and Don’ts

The dearth of natural light being a major contributing factor to SAD, it would be good idea to spend as much time as possible in natural light. The dawn hours around 6 to 8 am are good time to take a walk outside or at least sun yourself at a window.

Throughout the daylight hours try to keep those blinds up and curtains drawn. If at home then stay in the sunniest room.

Caffeine and alcohol are best avoided as they are most likely to aggravate your problem. Caffeine may offer temporary relief, but contributes to anxiety and muscle tension, while alcohol is in fact a depressant.

Lack of physical activity being another contributing factor, it would be wise to engage in light or aerobic exercise every morning. It would be best if you could combine the activity with natural light exposure.

If you can’t get out early enough in the morning, at least get out in your lunch break. Despite possible cloud cover, the natural light will help.

Try to follow a regular routine or schedule so that your body clock stays in sync. Follow regular timings for waking up, going to sleep, and all your activities in the wake hours, weather eating or

Light therapy is often prescribed, so make sure your room is well lit, to compensate for the lack of natural light.

In addition to these lifestyle tips there are also certain dietary measures that serve as great natural remedies. They are much better than antidepressants as they have lesser side effects.

Chromium, which is an essential trace mineral, is found in foods like brewer's yeast, oysters, molasses, organ meats, butter and eggs, and is believed to have positive effects in sufferers of SAD.

Vitamin D is another vital nutrient that can help cope with SAD. Vitamin D deficiency is common in winter as it is produced from exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D is found in dietary sources like fortified milk, cod liver oil, and eggs, but you may also need supplements.

In addition to these measures some effective remedies for SAD include consuming herbal teas and fruits like avocadoes and apricots. Steam inhalations and aromatherapy will also make you feel a lot better. You can also have a soak in a warm bath, with some essential oils added in, every few days.

answered by A W on 16 Feb 2009, 5:08:02

Cause For Winter Depression And Anxiety

Why do I feel more depressed and anxious in winter? (16 Feb 2009)

Why do I feel more depressed and anxious in winter?
(16 Feb 2009)