Self-Care Tips for Autumn / Seasonal Depression Self-Care

Ciao lovelies! Today we’re talking about something very important- Self-Care in Fall, and Self-care tips for Seasonal Affective Disorder (Seasonal Depression).

According to NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health), “Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes with the seasons, typically starting in the late fall and early winter”.

Some of the symptoms of SAD include: 

   - Having low energy

   - Hypersomnia

   - Overeating

   - Weight gain

   - Craving for carbohydrates

   - Social withdrawal 

While these are also common symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder, the key element in SAD is that these symptoms seem to happen more around a seasonal change, usually leading into fall/winter.

So today we’re going to be talking about some self-care tips that can help with Seasonal depression. Please note that these are NOT “cures” for seasonal depression. These may simply help with the symptoms of seasonal depression.

Tip #1- Take some Vitamin D.

A big factor in Seasonal Depression is the lack of Vitamin D. Taking Vitamin D supplements can help you gain some of it back. Vitamin D can also be found in Beef, Fish, Eggs, and Milk.

Tip #2- Get some sunlight, when you can.

It might be harder to get sunlight as the days get shorter, so get as much as you can. This is also crucial to your body getting vitamin D.

Tip #3- Other vitamin supplements may help too.

Taking other supplements like B-12 can help balance mood and energy levels. B-12 can be found in foods like Greek Yogurt, Beef, Ham, and Eggs.

Tip #4- Eating Healthy

While you might be craving carbs and artificial sugars when experiencing SAD, it’s better to try to eat something healthy, like vegetables and fruits high in healthy nutrients and vitamins.

Tip #5- Be Social.

While it can be hard to force yourself to hang out with people when you’re feeling depressed, it’s actually very good for you. Socially isolating yourself will only increase depressed feelings.

OVERALL: Remember that

1.       You are not alone. Many people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder fairly often.

2.       Things may seem hopeless, but they are not. Please seek help if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts.

3.       You are loved and cared for by many, including me. 

Stay safe lovelies, and I’ll see you in tomorrow’s post. 

REFERENCES:

NIMH Site on SAD

Harvard Health Site on Foods with B12

Web MD Site on Foods with D