By James Ross


There is a type of mood problem that mental health experts refer to as seasonal affective disorder or SAD. Put simply, it's something that makes a person depressed whenever the nights are longer and the air is colder. Experts do not really know why it happens. However, they suspect that it has something to do with a disruption in the circadian rhythm and hormone levels. The good news is the problem tends to go away on its own when the season changes. In order to keep its impact on one's everyday living, there are some simple tips on beating seasonal depression NY residents may try.

Get some sun. Exposing the skin to the sun allows for vitamin D synthesis to happen. Experts confirm that this nutrient is capable of lifting the mood. Each time the sun is in the sky, affected people should spend 20 to 30 minutes of their time under it.

Use a light therapy box. If it seems like you end up depressed during winter, it is a good idea for you to invest in a high quality light therapy box. This lamp can be regarded as your very own sun as it also produces UV light. Daily, spend up to 30 minutes in front of this electronic device to ensure optimum supply of vitamin D. By the way, the best time to use a light therapy box is in the morning.

Load up on vitamin D rich foods. Someone who cannot get his or her hands on a light therapy box need not worry. That's because vitamin D may also be obtained from various food sources. Oily types of fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna are on the top of the list. The nutrient is also present in beef liver, egg yolks and dairy. If regular access to these foods is not possible, daily intake of vitamin D capsules may be done instead.

Exercise on a regular basis. It's a great idea for affected individuals to put on their workout shoes often. Scientists confirm that regularly exercising can optimize the levels of happy hormones. Getting a regular dose of exercise also helps offset unnecessary weight gain, which is a very common complication of feeling depressed.

Give some essential oils a try. It's possible to have your mood improved with the help of aromatherapy. Essential oils like jasmine, sandalwood, basil, orange, grapefruit, lavender and chamomile are on the top of the list. You may also light up aromatherapy candles that are perfect for depressed individuals.

Write in a journal. Experts agree that writing down one's thought is good for the mental health. At the end of the day, the depressed individual should spend a few minutes writing in a journal. Negative thoughts and feelings need to be included in order for the person to get them out of his or her system.

These are some of the simplest tips on effectively beating the mood issue. Sadly, it's not all the time that doing them is enough. If the problem is considerably affecting the lives of the concerned individuals, they should get in touch with mental health authorities right away.




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