6 tips to help get you through this winter

1. Engage in social interaction.

 During this time of the year consider spending more time with friends, family, or coworkers if you can.  You may feel like isolating yourself because of this condition but it's important that you still get adequate human interaction.  You may even find comfort in sharing your feelings about SAD with those around you.  

2. Get yourself on a schedule.  

A good way to prevent symptoms of SAD is getting yourself in a routine. It is a good idea to start preparing your sleep schedule for the shortening days early on, consider even starting before the daylight savings time shift.  Making your day more regimented may also help you from falling behind on tasks at work.

3. Prioritize movement. 

 You may be limited to indoor activities due to the weather outside but that shouldn’t stop you from getting much needed exercise.  Consider training inside a gym or moving outdoor activities like biking, inside, by getting a Peloton.  If you don’t feel like doing heavy exercising during this time of the year, consider doing  light exercises such as yoga. 

4. Take a vacation.  

It is a good idea to take a vacation during this time of the year if you find yourself getting into a rut during the holidays.  A destination to a warmer climate may be especially helpful if you feel that you are more affected by the colder weather.

5. Avoid alcoholic beverages. 

You may want to cope with symptoms of SAD through alcohol consumption.  This can actually make your feelings of depression worse as alcohol is known to  alter brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine which make us happy.  Consider limiting drinking to social settings and having one or two only.  

6. Talk to your doctor. 

If symptoms of SAD prolong or get severe please reach out to a medical professional about how you feel.  Your doctor may be able to help you by offering different medications or therapies to combat your symptoms.  It is okay to get help when you need it.