The winter blues are a type of depression with a seasonal pattern. You can learn how to beat the winter blues by socializing, getting enough sunlight, and making healthy lifestyle choices.
According to the American Psychiatric Association's (APA) Healthy Minds Monthly poll, about 38% of Americans note their mood declines during winter. About two-thirds of the people polled experienced behavioral changes, while one in five people reported moodiness. These symptoms of the winter blues can affect your mental and physical health.
Before that happens, learn how to beat the winter blues by applying these seasonal mood tips. With these strategies, you can enjoy your retirement in Kingwood, TX, regardless of the season!
The winter blues, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression.It has a seasonal pattern, meaning symptoms are more apparent and severe during the cold winter months. During this period, there are fewer hours of sunlight, which can trigger symptoms.
Symptoms of the winter blues include:
For some people, symptoms of SAD can be so severe that they interfere with everyday activities. Consult a mental health professional if you experience these symptoms and find it difficult to cope or function.
According to the American Heart Association, between 1.4% and 9.7% of people living in America experience SAD. Rates for people living in the northernmost latitudes reach up to 10%. SAD is more common in women.
Researchers aren't certain of what causes SAD. However, potential theories include:
Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals that communicate throughout the body. One of these chemicals, serotonin, can trigger feelings of happiness.
Sunlight helps regulate serotonin levels. A lack of sun exposure during the cold winter months can cause low serotonin levels, leading to a low mood.
Sunlight exposure also helps the body produce vitamin D. Vitamin D can affect your serotonin level and mood.
Melatonin is a natural chemical that affects our mood and helps regulate sleep. Low sunlight exposure can cause an overproduction, causing you to feel sleepy.
Less sunlight exposure can cause your biological clock to shift. Since it regulates sleep, mood, and hormones, a shift may trigger SAD symptoms.
People who are at risk of SAD:
Don't let SAD ruin your winter. Instead, use these seasonal mood tips to beat the winter blues.
Developing a routine can give your life structure, which may reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.Your routine should include:
You can request winter routine support through your senior living community.
Regular aerobic exercise can stimulate serotonin. Try spending time outside by:
You can find fun exercise classes through your senior living community's fitness program.
Engage in fun activities with other seniors in Kingwood. Socializing can stimulate feelings of purpose and belonging. You can find engaging activities through your senior living community's events and activities calendar.
Ask friends to join you during mealtimes. Their presence can encourage you to make healthy meal decisions. Eating whole foods that are rich in nutrients can regulate neurotransmitters, improving your mood.
If your symptoms persist, seek professional help for emotional care in aging seniors. Work with someone who specializes in mental wellness for seniors.
Don't try to self-diagnose if you experience symptoms of SAD. Instead, schedule an appointment with your health care provider or a mental health professional. They'll determine if your symptoms indicate you have SAD or another mood disorder.
A mental health professional may determine that you have SAD if you experience:
You may experience symptoms of the winter blues for five months of the year. Symptoms can worsen in January and February.The timing and severity may vary based on your sensitivity and location.
To treat your winter blues, a mental health care provider may recommend:
Bright light therapy is usually the first line of treatment for the winter blues. According to the Mayo Clinic, about half of the people who use bright light therapy have good results in reducing symptoms.
These boxes emit 10,000 lux of light. You can treat yourself at home within the first hour of waking up, for 20 to 30 minutes.
Your health care provider may recommend antidepressants or vitamin D supplements. Exercising for 20 minutes at least three days a week may have similar effects to taking antidepressants.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you recognize and manage your symptoms. Since SAD occurs as the seasons change, the onset is predictable. Your health care provider can help you take preventive measures before the fall season, allowing you to manage your symptoms.
Learning how to beat the winter blues will help you make the most of your retirement in Kingwood. Use these seasonal mood tips to improve your mental wellness. Remember, you can discover more resources through your senior living community.
Cypress Woods Senior Living offers Independent Living with supportive services, allowing you to flourish in a vibrant, caring community. Discover our exclusive senior living programs, including delicious dining, engaging activities and events, and senior-specific health and wellness classes. Contact us now to schedule your tour.