How Do I Know if I Have S.A.D.?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a very real condition that affects many people. How do you know if you have SAD and is there a cure? I have been pondering this over the last couple of months and want to share my findings + some tips to help you beat the winter blues.*

According to MayoClinic.com, “Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you’re like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.” Fall and winter SAD symptoms usually include oversleeping, appetite changes, weight gain, and tiredness or low energy. To read more see the full description on MayoClinic.com.

A lot of us feel down in the winter months, especially if you’re a sun lover like myself. There are shorter days, fewer hours of sunshine, and the cold seems to bury itself deep down in our bones. Some of us may withdraw socially, change our eating or drinking habits to cope, become less productive at work, or worse.

But how can you know if you have it? The answer is simple, but not what everyone wants to hear: Go talk to a medical professional. Tell your GP, talk to a psychotherapist – just don’t be afraid to ask for help. Even though it is seasonal, it is still a form of depression and should be taken seriously. Only your doctor can help you find the cause of SAD, as it can be different for many.

Whether or not you have SAD, here are some tips and tricks for boosting your mood and beating the winter blues:

1. FIND SOME SUNSHINE. If you have some sunny days during winter, get outside and soak it up. Even though it’s cold, sunshine lifts our mood. Being in the sun gives me a sense of hope for warmer days ahead and thankfulness for the simple things in life. We all share this simple pleasure – take a moment to think about that.
2. PRACTICE GRATITUDE. Even if you can’t be out in the sun, you can practice being thankful for one thing each morning. You will be surprised how this shift in perspective will change the entire day. Here’s what you do: Take 2 minutes before you start anything in the morning. Think of one thing you are grateful for, big or small and write it down. Now, really focus on that thing and tell yourself why you are grateful for it. How has that thing/person improved your life or inspired you? Be bold and share with someone. Gratitude is contagious and much healthier than negativity.
3. PLAN A TRIP. Setting goals can shift our mindset to focus on the good that will come in the future. For me, planning a trip to leisure in the sunshine while sipping a margarita really gives me something to look forward to. What is that for you? Whatever it is, pick something, make a plan, and enjoy the process of planning and being hopeful for that goal to come to fruition. If lounging by a pool sounds dreamy to you, check out some of my recommended destinations that are sure to please!
4. EXERCISE. It’s always hard to do it, but you’re never sorry you did. Am I right? The positive physical and mental changes exercise can give you short and long term have been proven over and over. In one scientific study, exercise proved just as effective as antidepressants in patients with major depression (Psychosomatic Medicine, 2007). The American Psychological Association has an interesting and in-depth article on the topic if you want to dive deeper.
5. TRY A LIGHT THERAPY BOX. Light boxes attempt to mimic natural outdoor light. They can be helpful for those with SAD, but they should be recommended by a medical professional due to multiple considerations, so please consult one before trying it on your own.

Hopefully you have found at least one useful tool to help boost your mood. Take some time to peruse the reviews of poolside experiences on Find Me a Pool for your next relaxation destination. You deserve it!

*These tips are not the advice of a medical professional. Always consult a doctor when concerned about issues or symptoms regarding your health and mental wellbeing.