About 14 percent of Americans suffer from it, but you don’t hear much about it.
Symptoms of this mood disorder are usually apparent in late autumn and typically last until the beginning of spring. Treatments are available from doctors or mental health professionals such as light therapy, psychotherapy, or medication.
When treating SAD, I have found that meditation and self-talk work the most effectively for me. To cope with the symptoms of this disorder, I need more than just extra light.
As we all experience SAD differently, I’d like to share with you how it affects me personally. I have lived in Denver, Colorado, since 1995. I am often asked why I haven’t adjusted to the cold.
I was born in Brooklyn, NY, but I never experienced winter as a child. In my preteen years, my parents relocated our family to Puerto Rico. I lived in Florida for eight years after graduating college before moving to Colorado.
It was all new and exciting at the beginning. The fun ended, however, when temperatures fell below freezing (32 degrees). My mood and emotions were affected by Colorado’s overcast skies, snowy days, and darkness.
It was difficult for me to stay motivated during these days. In addition, I avoided getting out of the house as much as possible. Driving in the snow also panicked me. Every year, I felt less tolerant of winter weather.
However, the last 3 years have been spent trying to modify this behavior because, let’s be honest, winter in Colorado isn’t gonna go anywhere! Currently, I do not have the option of moving.
As soon as it began snowing, I started seeing winter’s beauty. My attention was drawn to the trees that looked beautiful beneath the snow. Since I love fashion, layering clothing pieces to create a cute winter outfit motivated me to get out of the house. Last but not least, I started to enjoy the fresh, clean, cool air (fewer allergies, less pollen).
This is also the perfect time to meditate, relax, eat comfort foods, and curl up on the couch with a good book or movie. My goal for this year is to engage in more outdoor activities. Even though I’m not a skier, I’ve done snowshoeing in the past, so I wouldn’t mind trying it out again.
There may be days when all this does not help, and that’s OK. In those situations, supplements or medications can help. Since I’ve changed my attitude and thought patterns about winter, I have noticed that I have fewer down days each year.
I would like to conclude by saying that you should enjoy winter. If you need help discovering its beauty or coping, consult a professional. To determine the right medication or supplement for you, speak to your doctor. My own life has been transformed by changing my thoughts and attitude, and with each passing year, I learn to accept winter more and more.