When you learn how to beat the winter blues, you can take control of your seasonal affective disorder and thrive all year round, even during the winter months. With strategies such as intentionally socializing and investing in hobbies, your winters can go from dull to enjoyable.
Did you know that the transition to the winter season may affect your brain chemistry? For seniors in Woodbury, NJ, Seasonal depression is more than just feeling blue; it is actually influenced by changes in serotonin and dopamine, according to the Mayo Clinic.
What do the winter blues mean? What are the symptoms, and how can you combat this complex condition? Read on to learn more.
"Winter blues" is a colloquial term for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Seasonal affective disorder occurs when individuals suffer exacerbated symptoms of depression during certain parts of the year, most commonly during the winter months.
The symptoms of SAD can vary from person to person, but here are a few general signs to watch for:
You do not have to suffer in silence if you have seasonal affective disorder. There are many steps you can take to help yourself and maintain good control of your mental health during this time of year.
It may seem tempting to indulge in comfort foods and increase your alcohol intake when you start to feel depression symptoms worsen. However, these habits can actually exacerbate your symptoms.
Focus on whole foods that are rich in nutrients, rather than processed options that only provide empty calories. A good rule of thumb is to try and have a fruit or vegetable with every meal and snack.
Many people with seasonal affective disorder also have vitamin D deficiency. Not only does vitamin D deficiency cause mental health problems, but it can also have a physical effect on your body, with symptoms such as joint pain.
Ask your doctor if vitamin D supplements may be an ideal solution. You can also try to go outside more during the day to naturally increase your vitamin D levels, or incorporate more vitamin D-rich foods into your diet, such as:
For seniors in assisted living or memory care, chef-prepared meals ensure that you receive adequate nutrition intake daily.
Although daylight hours tend to be shorter during the winter, especially in New Jersey, you should still attempt to go outside when the sun is out. If you have mobility issues or you simply want to stay inside, open your curtains and allow as much light in as possible.
For those who may struggle to get natural sunlight, a daylight lamp may be an ideal investment. These lamps mimic natural sunlight and can help alleviate symptoms of seasonal depression.
It may seem like a chore, but socializing with your loved ones is vital to maintaining relationships during the winter. Make plans intentionally, so that you are less likely to back out of a pre-agreed commitment.
Rather than scheduling a complex activity, get together with your loved ones for a meal or a movie night. There will be less pressure to think of something fun, and you can easily relax in a supportive environment.
Consider additional mental health resources for combating seasonal affective disorder, such as a qualified therapist. They can evaluate your triggers and help you design coping mechanisms when you experience symptoms.
It depends. Some people begin to experience symptoms of seasonal affective disorder at the beginning of the season, while others may have intense feelings of sadness for only a few weeks or days.
Often, those who have negative memories associated with the holiday season have the winter blues. They may also struggle with the loss of a loved one who enjoyed the winter season.
Some people have recurring symptoms of winter blues that appear annually, while others may deal with the phenomenon for one or a handful of years, only for the condition to go dormant.
Winters in the northeast region of the United States tend to be harsher than in other areas. Expect cold temperatures and extreme weather, such as snow. Cities like Woodbury are in the southern part of New Jersey, meaning that there is typically less snowfall than in areas with higher elevations.
Although prioritizing mental health is important to manage symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, it is also crucial to maintain your mental wellness year-round with tactics such as:
Learning how to beat the winter blues is essential for a joyful and productive winter season. With these winter mood boosters, you can ensure that you stay mentally and physically fit and prepare yourself for spring.
At Woodbury Mews, we prioritize assisted living wellness and memory care engagement to provide our residents with a high quality of life. Our exclusive programs, such as chef-prepared dining and health and wellness programs designed for seniors, ensure that seniors can enjoy their golden years in style and comfort.
Would you like more independent living tips? Consider moving to Woodbury Mews. Reach out to us today to learn more about our beautiful community, or visit us in person in Woodbury, NJ, to see it for yourself.