4 Ways to Prevent Seasonal Depression

Depression and anxiety are common during the colder months. As temperatures drop, you may begin experiencing shifts in your mental health. When prepared, you can better manage symptoms of seasonal depression. Prevent seasonal depression with these helpful tips:

 

Spend more time outside

Fall is in full swing and we’ve begun seeing less of the sun these days. However, sun exposure is crucial in improving and maintaining your mental health. Vitamin D is linked to elevated mood and energy levels. Go for a nature walk or bike ride; no matter what you do, get outside and get moving.

 

Focus on diet and exercise

Your physical and mental health go hand-in-hand! Therefore, it’s important that you focus on eating nourishing foods and moving your body during the Fall and Winter seasons. Exercise produces “feel good” endorphins and nutrient-rich foods support mental clarity. Incorporate more vegetables into your diet and at least 30 minutes to an hour of physical activity every day.

 

Socialize

As temperatures drop, it’s easy to isolate yourself from the rest of the world — but humans require socialization! Self-isolation feeds depression. During the Fall and Winter months, it’s important that you surround yourself with people who make you happy. At minimum, plan one weekly outing or gathering with friends or family.

 

Prioritize relaxing self-care

Often, depressive episodes can be triggered by a lack of self-care — whether it be physical, mental, or emotional self-care. Don’t wait until it’s too late to start taking care of yourself. Check in with yourself daily or weekly; ask yourself, “What do I need from myself today/this week?” Cortisol, or “the stress hormone”, can contribute to poor mental health. Whether you take a hot bath at the end of a long day or curl up on the couch with a good book, find time to relax and unwind when you’re stressed.

 

Interested in learning more about seasonal depression or “Seasonal Affective Disorder”? The licensed clinical psychologists at Geo Psychological Testing specialize in identifying and diagnosing disorders like S.A.D. Contact us today!

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