What is Seasonal Depression?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (also know as seasonal depression) affects thousands of people a year. It’s a condition wherein people who aren’t normally depressed throughout the year become depressed during fall and winter.
Even people who have “regular” depression may have exaggerated symptoms during the fall and winter months. The sun goes away, and it seems to take away all our good energy!
If you experience seasonal depression, you’re not alone. Many suffer from this condition and there are plenty of people who deal with the same thing every year.
Here’s how to cope with the onslaught of these feelings, and still come out healthy on the other side.
5 Natural Treatments For Seasonal Depression
1. Make Sure Your Diet Contains Certain Foods.
There’s nothing worse than having the food you eat affect your mood. But it happens all the time.
In general, you’re better off eating as cleanly as possible. Eat organic food whenever you can and pay attention to which foods give you a mood boost. Don’t forget your fresh greens! But make sure you’re eating enough omega-3s and healthy fats. These are the foods used as active natural treatments for seasonal depression.
2. De-Clutter Your Space.
Did you know that the organization of your space affects your inner peace? It’s true! It’s been scientifically proven that living in a messy space can stress you out and take your attention away from things that really matter. We literally cannot relax.
Luckily, this problem is very easy to solve. Just start tidying up your space little by little, whenever you have time. Just do as much as you can without stressing yourself out. You can even take it a step further and de-clutter your wardrobe. I can testify that it’s a very refreshing experience.
3. Make Sure You’re Getting Enough Vitamin D.
Ah, Vitamin D. It influences so much! But it’s one of the big decision factors of whether or not you have seasonal depression.
Traditional Vitamin D supplements are a little controversial. You’re probably better off taking in your Vitamin D with food because oysters and fish roe are just downright delicious. Then there’s the best friend of those looking for natural treatments for seasonal depression: Natural sun lamps!
4. Spend Some Time Outdoors
I know that this isn’t always possible for those of you in less Florida-ish surroundings. But even just pulling on your parka and going for a walk can help tremendously. If possible, try earthing or poking around your garden. Getting out of stuffy spaces can help tremendously, and just going around can help you get out of your head (in a good way).
5. Just Focus On Taking Care of You.
Seasonal depression tends to happen during the times when we’re spending the most time around friends and family. All of our energy is sapped.
One of the most effective natural treatments for season depression is sticking up for your own time and space. Call upon your loved ones for help and support if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Make a list of everything you love about yourself. It may seem a little selfish. But trust me: It will help.
I hope that the upcoming seasons brings joy and light to you. If you’re dealing with seasonal depression, know that you’re not alone. You’re a strong person inside, and you are loved! Be kind and nurturing to yourself.
Like This Post? Pin It For Later!
I found that aromatherapy is EXTREMELY helpful for me and my depression and anxiety. There are so many essential oils for depression to choose from and they’re great smelling, so if you diffuse them its not only uplifting it’s also gonna make your place more inviting and warming. Seriously… essential oils have helped me so much, they would make a great addition to the 5 tips in this article.