Winter Blues

Do you feel sluggish? Would you rather stay at home and hibernate instead of participating in outdoor activities? Do you reach more often for that bag of chips or cookies? […]

Do you feel sluggish? Would you rather stay at home and hibernate instead of participating in outdoor activities? Do you reach more often for that bag of chips or cookies? Well, you might have it: SAD, or what is commonly called the Winter Blues.

SAD stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. It is defined as a type of depression that is related to seasonal patterns. People experience depression-like symptoms and mood swings. The most seasonal affecting periods are Fall/Winter, and Spring.

It is associated with fewer daylight hours. Our biological clocks shift, and our circadian rhythms, the internal clock influenced by light and darkness, is altered. This lack of daylight and the subsequent lack of physical activity, brings down our serotonin and melatonin levels. Our sleep is affected. Our outlook on life and ourselves is changed.

Some symptoms of SAD: We feel sad, worthless and guilty. We crave more carbohydrates. We can’t get a good night’s sleep. We are listless and unmotivated to do something physically active. We have difficulty concentrating. We can even have suicidal thoughts.

Statistics show that 15% of Canadians have had mild cases of SAD sometime in their lives. While 2 to 3% have had severe symptoms.

How do we treat this malady? There is light therapy where you expose yourself to light that mimics the sun’s UV rays (but in a safe way). You can get more real sunlight exposure. There is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a psychotherapy aimed at unwanted negative behaviour patterns, like depression. As always, regular exercise, eating healthy, getting enough sleep, being active and connected with people are good tools to use.

It is also suggested to boost your intake of Vitamin D. Consume a Mediterranean Diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and olive oil). Eating folate-rich foods like broccoli and legumes. Meditation is suggested because it can stimulate the pineal gland and help with getting better sleep. Aromatherapy is another choice.

It’s that time of year. We go to work when it is dark, we come home when it is near dark. It can take a toll on our mental health. If you have concerns about your own battles with SAD, the Canadian Mental Health Association can help. In Sarnia, their offices are on Lochiel Street. Ontario.ca offers links to help with mental health issues.

There is nothing wrong in wanting to hibernate in the colder, darker months. It is natural for our brains to tell us to be less active and eat more. Feeling warm and cozy in a comfortable environment is good for the mind and body. Try using the softness of candlelight instead of harsh electrical light, eating nourishing comfort food, wearing cozy clothes, and not stressing over productivity in your day.

Embrace the changing of the seasons. Say goodbye to the Winter Blues.