Wintry blues

What is S.A.D.?

I don’t know about you, but I really need some sun and warmer temperatures right about now. I feel like I have a mild case of S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder). Am I being overly dramatic? Maybe. Or maybe not. . .

The Mayo Clinic defines S.A.D. as a type of depression that occurs during seasonal changes. S.A.D. begins and ends at approximately the same time every year. For most people the symptoms begin in the fall and continue through the winter months, draining your energy and making you feel moody.

What are symptoms of S.A.D.?

Wow! That sounds pretty close to what I’m experiencing now. Thankfully, my symptoms are very mild. I don’t think I’m moody, but then again how would I know (I need you all to tell me if I’m acting weird)? I don’t feel like my energy is drained. I’m just not motivated to get off the couch at night or on weekends. I do miss the sunlight. In my profession I tend to be indoors all day and during this time of year, when I leave it’s usually at or after sunset.

Are there treatments for S.A.D.?

Okay, so what can we do about S.A.D.? I’m a solution type of guy. Therefore, I’m not going to let this get the best of me. Treatment for S.A.D. can include light therapy, psychotherapy and medications. However, my first thought is exercise. Get those endorphins going throughout my body. When I see hard-core runners on Riverside Drive pounding out the miles in 30-degree weather, I get inspired, even though running’s not my favorite form of exercise. Those runners have that endorphin thing going on and endorphins make you feel good. So, I’ll be going through my P90X videos. I’ll be in my living room sheltered from the cold. Working out to videos at home does work for me but if you’re the type that needs supervision, get in the gym. Exercise helps fight the winter blues. As a matter of fact, exercise helps with overall depression. If you can brave the cold, get out and walk. A brisk walk will get your heart pumping and clear your head.

This is my first approach to curing the winter blues. If you’re feeling a little down about the winter, try exercise. If the symptoms persist you may need to consider one of the other therapies mentioned in this article.

Hang in there. We have less than 160 days until summer!

peace and love,
chuck