Winter blues or winter depression is still considered a mystery by many people. Winter depression is also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In very simple terms, it is a feeling of mild depression, combined with a lack of energy and motivation to do anything.
Here are some of the common symptoms of winter depression-
Depression
Oversleeping and still feeling lethargic
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Difficulty concentrating
If you find yourself suffering from any of these symptoms only during the colder seasons, consult a doctor.
Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder
In most animals, winter is a time of reduced activity. Even though humans no longer follow this, many scientists consider SAD as a reminder of the time, when our ancestors used to do it. There are scientists who also believe that SAD is caused by the hormonal variations in our brain as the season changes. Another theory is that it is caused by the reduced level of the neurotransmitter Serotonin, which is important in the regulation of mood and sleep in humans.
Here are some tips to beat those winter blues.
1.Get some light
As we said earlier, lack of light is considered as one of the causes of winter depression. As soon as it is morning, open the windows or sit outside the house for some time. Natural sunlight increases the Serotonin level in our bodies. If it is too dark outside, turn on the lights inside the house to make it as bright as possible. Getting enough light will brighten your mood instantly.
2.Exercise
Exercising is a great way of relieving stress and brightening up your mood. By working out early in the morning, you will feel refreshed and energised, for the entire day. If it is possible, try exercising outside as this will give you double benefits.
3.Wear bright coloured clothes
Wearing bright, happy coloured clothes puts anybody in a good mood instantly. It will trick your brain into thinking that everything is bright and beautiful outside.
4.Eat healthy
Since you are already feeling depressed, it is very easy to overeat. Instead of consuming junk foods, try to eat healthy. It will also help you to keep off any weight gain. In addition, remove caffeine and other refined ingredients from your food.
5.Do something
A very easy way to fall into depression is to be sedentary. Take up any fun project. Do something that will keep you stimulated while not being very difficult. An easy indoor activity to consider is home projects. Clean that cluttered closet, do some repairs or you could even paint your house.
6.Never be alone
Being alone in winter can be incredibly depressing. So, hang out with your friends or relatives. Spending time with your friends lifts up your mood instantly. If you are unable to visit your friends personally, get in contact with them digitally. If you could not find any friends or relatives to hang out with, it is okay. You could always join any internet group and spent time chatting and making new friends.
7.Get away
If nothing seems to work, get away from there. Fix your vacation to be in the middle of the winter so that you will have something to look forward to during the depressing days.
Here are some of the common symptoms of winter depression-
Depression
Oversleeping and still feeling lethargic
Weight gain
Increased appetite
Difficulty concentrating
If you find yourself suffering from any of these symptoms only during the colder seasons, consult a doctor.
Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder
In most animals, winter is a time of reduced activity. Even though humans no longer follow this, many scientists consider SAD as a reminder of the time, when our ancestors used to do it. There are scientists who also believe that SAD is caused by the hormonal variations in our brain as the season changes. Another theory is that it is caused by the reduced level of the neurotransmitter Serotonin, which is important in the regulation of mood and sleep in humans.
Here are some tips to beat those winter blues.
1.Get some light
As we said earlier, lack of light is considered as one of the causes of winter depression. As soon as it is morning, open the windows or sit outside the house for some time. Natural sunlight increases the Serotonin level in our bodies. If it is too dark outside, turn on the lights inside the house to make it as bright as possible. Getting enough light will brighten your mood instantly.
2.Exercise
Exercising is a great way of relieving stress and brightening up your mood. By working out early in the morning, you will feel refreshed and energised, for the entire day. If it is possible, try exercising outside as this will give you double benefits.
3.Wear bright coloured clothes
Wearing bright, happy coloured clothes puts anybody in a good mood instantly. It will trick your brain into thinking that everything is bright and beautiful outside.
4.Eat healthy
Since you are already feeling depressed, it is very easy to overeat. Instead of consuming junk foods, try to eat healthy. It will also help you to keep off any weight gain. In addition, remove caffeine and other refined ingredients from your food.
5.Do something
A very easy way to fall into depression is to be sedentary. Take up any fun project. Do something that will keep you stimulated while not being very difficult. An easy indoor activity to consider is home projects. Clean that cluttered closet, do some repairs or you could even paint your house.
6.Never be alone
Being alone in winter can be incredibly depressing. So, hang out with your friends or relatives. Spending time with your friends lifts up your mood instantly. If you are unable to visit your friends personally, get in contact with them digitally. If you could not find any friends or relatives to hang out with, it is okay. You could always join any internet group and spent time chatting and making new friends.
7.Get away
If nothing seems to work, get away from there. Fix your vacation to be in the middle of the winter so that you will have something to look forward to during the depressing days.