Beating the Winter Blues and Blahs

For most of us, winter can be a rough time. Some don't know why; some know that the lack of sunlight has something to do with it; and still others are just looking for a way out of a dark state of boredom or depression.

If something is ailing you, it's important to look into it. The winter is a rough time for many, so it is important to stay in optimal mental health during this time. You don't have to have a "mental disorder" to have the blahs or the blues during the winter.

So what's ailing you?

It may be seasonal affective disorder. If you notice periods of depression that seem to accompany seasonal changes during the year, you may suffer from this condition, which is characterized by recurrent episodes of depression in certain months of the year alternating with periods of normal mood the rest of the year.

Usually those affected by SAD become depressed in the fall and winter and feel better during the spring and summer. Atypical cases are also known in which the person becomes depressed during the summer. Most people with the condition are women whose illness typically begins in their twenties. Milder versions of SAD have been reported in children and adolescents.

The National Alliance for the mentally ill says that many people with SAD report at least one close relative with a psychiatric condition, most frequently a severe depressive disorder (55 percent) or alcohol abuse (34 percent).

Here are some tips to fight the winter blues. Spend as much time outdoors as possible, especially in the morning. Morning light is best for waking up your body clock. Exercise also works wonders, and will keep you feeling better. If you can exercise outdoors, even better!

Avoid too much caffeine. A strong cup of coffee might jump start you in the morning, but increasing your caffeine intake to treat the blahs will most likely lead to other problems, such anxiety, muscle tension, and stomach upset. Don't treat your depression with alcohol. It won't cure the problem, and excessive use can lead to alcohol dependency. Make sure your days off include some outdoor activities.

If you think you may have this condition, you may want to check out the web for some resources to help you.

Check out http://www.nami.org/helpline/sad.htm,
http://www.mentalhealth.com/book/p40-sad... or
http://www.nmha.org/infoctr/factsheets/2...

Your children, if you have any, may not be seasonal affective, but may also suffer

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