Why did I write it in all capital letters? Because in winter, some people suffer with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). That’s a type of depression that is related to the changes in seasons. Symptoms can be a drop in energy, low mood, loss of pleasure in everyday activities, and sleeping for longer or finding it hard to get up in the morning.
If you’re feeling this way and it’s affecting your life, there may be things you can do (so don’t just accept it!). Here are a few things to try:
Get outside even if the weather is foggy, rainy or snowy. Even a short walk can be good for your mood. If you can’t stand to be outside, move your exercise routine indoors, as getting more movement into your day can also help with depression.
Get a SUN lamp and look at it for 10 to 30 minutes per day. The best time is when you wake up. Lamps are relatively affordable at around $40 to 70 and can make a difference to your melatonin level.
One way I can help is to test your Vitamin D levels. Canadians are often low in Vitamin D because the sun is less intense during the winter months, the days are shorter, and the weather forces us indoors. I find patients who don’t yet take a supplement are often SEVERELY low in Vitamin D, which can contribute to depression, anxiety, low energy, low immune function, higher risk of cancer and autoimmune diseases (MS), and general inflammation in the body.
After we’ve tested your Vitamin D, I prescribe an individualized dose based on your lab results (often way more than the usual 1000IU day that has become standard) and we monitor your levels as Vitamin D can also be toxic at higher levels.
Want to give it a try? Connect with me today to book an appointment.