Moreover, darker seasons affect the production ofmelatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep.
Our brains tend to respond to light in terms of circadian rhythms, saysDr.
Guy Winch, a psychologist and the author ofEmotional First Aid.
Some people respond with a drop in mood, feeling lethargic.
You get the instinct to hibernate.
Here are some tips to keep you sane til spring.
When people are actually depressed, they might know intellectually that they werent always depressed.
But we have a hard time remembering states when we are not in them, Winch says.
When we are not starving, we have a hard time remembering how centering and compelling real hunger is.
You cant really reason yourself out of depression in that way.
If you cant afford a therapist, there are a number ofmental health resourcesandhotlinesthat can serve as alternatives.
It makes it feel like its a really sunny day outside, Winch says.
Its a really effective tool.
If they have any signs of SAD, they should take 4,000 international units, Kalayjian says.
If there arent any severe signs, just take 2,000 units for maintenance.
In addition to Vitamin D3 pills, Kalayjian suggests taking supplements that help with sleep and relaxation.
For instance: Magnesium complex at bedtime will double-check your muscles are also relaxed.
Why is my neck pinched?
We didnt process and release the stress.
Winch recommends keeping a steady sleep schedule.
The body is amenable to things like that.
It helps limit sleep disturbances.
She also recommends meditating before bed.
Spending time outdoors is useful, especially on sunny days, Winch says.
Just be outside for an hour, or for half an hour, he says.
Unfortunately, overloading on sweets and bread will just make you feel more sluggish and low.
High-sugar foods surge and deplete our energy, Kalayjian says.
They help you move around, she said.
But at the very least, theyll make winter a little more bearable.
