Emotional Wellness: Winter Blues

We have discussed how to combat grief last week. Let us discuss another emotional issue especially now that Christmas Season is fast-approaching.  Many people, specially in countries with Winter Season, start to feel depressed in November and continue to feel dreary until the spring thaw.  Scientists call this Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  According to Dr. Don Powell, daylight is needed to prompt the brain to release chemicals that spark feelings of energy. Since daylight is shorter during winter, some people suffer from this disorder during these months.  Other contributing factors, continues Dr. Powell, include:

• Family members who live far away
• Memories of a loved one who has passed away
• Financial problems
• Fatigue and feelings of being overwhelmed by tasks and obligation associated with the holidays
• Idealistic expectations

Some ways to prevent or combat winter blues:

• Get outside as much as possible.  SAD sufferers report they benefit more by exposure to early morning light than light later in the day.
• Keep the drapes in your house open and the window shades raised during daylight hours.
• On cloudy days, turn on bright lights.
• Begin holiday preparations well in advance, to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
• Delegate chores like writing greeting cards or baking cookies, to other members of the household.
• Don't drink alcohol if it makes you moody and depressed.
• Don't expect everything - food, decorations, family get-togethers - to be perfect for the holidays. 
• Don't spend beyond your budget.
• If keeping old holiday traditions is painful, start new ones.
• If you expect to be alone for the holidays, don't wait to be invited somewhere; invite people over.

Used with permission from A Year of Health Hints by Don R Powell, PHD and the American Institute for Preventive Medicine, copyright 2010. www.healthylife.com