Shake the Winter Blahs

If you've been feeling down and you can't seem to shake it, it may not be psychological. You could be feeling SAD. Seasonal Afffective Disorder is caused by a deficiency of sunlight. Studies show that the short, gray days of winter bring fewer ultraviolet rays. Plus, cold temperatures can keep us from spending as much time outdoors, beneath the sun. The end result can be depression.

Warning signs of SAD:

• Wanting be alone
• Avoiding activities you usually enjoy
• A lingering melancholy
• A change in appetite – either eating more or less (especially carbohydrates)
• Sleeping more than usual
• Low energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Indecisiveness

If you’re like the 25 million people who fall victim to the winter blahs, there are things you can do to brighten your mood...

• Minimize stress
• Exercise
• Control sugar and alcohol intake
• Go on a warm, sunny vacation

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