To reverse seasonal affective disorder, focus on your diet, socializing, and exposure to sunlight. Applying these seasonal mental health tips can enhance your retirement in Chico, CA.
According to the American Heart Association, between 1.4% and 9.7% of people living in North America experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Rates for those living in the northernmost latitudes reach as high as 10%. For some people, symptoms can become so severe that they're disabling.
Take control of your mental and physical health this year to reverse seasonal affective disorder. With these winter wellness tips, you can enjoy your retirement in Chico, CA. Read on for a healthy mood and aging today!
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), or seasonal depression, is a type of depression triggered by changes in the season. It occurs when there are fewer hours of sunlight, usually beginning in the fall. Symptoms may worsen as the weather gets colder and improve as spring begins.
SAD is a form of depression. Symptoms can become so severe that they affect daily functioning. It can also affect how you think and feel.
SAD may cause symptoms of depression and mood changes, including:
Researchers don't know the exact cause of SAD, though sunlight can trigger symptoms. Potential causes include:
Sun exposure helps your body naturally produce vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a role in emotional regulation and serotonin production. Getting less exposure to sunlight during the winter can cause a drop in serotonin production, which is linked to feelings of depression.
Serotonin is also associated with sleep and appetite. Failing to get enough sleep can further affect your mood.
Sunlight exposure affects your body's internal clock (circadian rhythm). Disruptions to your body clock can trigger symptoms.
Don't let the winter weather affect your mental or physical health. Use these tips to reverse seasonal affective disorder.
Enjoy time outside by engaging in winter weather activities, including:
Spending time outside will give you more exposure to sunlight, which can boost your mood. Two hours of exposure to natural settings weekly can also support better overall well-being.
Exercising can stimulate neurotransmitters that affect mood, including serotonin and dopamine. You can find exercise classes through your senior living community's fitness program, including:
Try exercising outside to get more sunlight exposure.
According to the National Institute on Aging, social isolation and loneliness are associated with a higher risk of:
Reach out to members of your Chico, CA community. Spending time with friends can improve your mood and outlook on life. You can discover opportunities to socialize through your senior living community's events and activities calendar.
Make time for laughter. Laughter can ease stress, brighten your mood, and make aging more enjoyable.
Instead of applying these winter wellness tips alone, consider moving into a senior living community. Their exclusive senior lifestyle programs may cover:
These support services may improve your mood and aging processes.
Seeking seasonal mental health treatment can help you manage your symptoms. A mental health professional may recommend:
Symptoms of SAD usually begin in the fall and continue into the winter months. They can become more severe as there are fewer hours of sunlight. Symptoms usually don't improve until the arrival of spring.
The most challenging months for people with seasonal affective disorder are January and February. Though it's less common, people can also experience symptoms during the summer.
SAD is associated with shorter daylight hours and less sunlight. Sunlight exposure affects the body's natural production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin. These brain chemicals can affect the body's mood and circadian rhythm.
If you're not getting enough sunlight exposure during the summer, consider using light therapy. Bright light therapy involves sitting in front of a light box for 20 minutes a day, first thing in the morning. You may notice improvements within one or two weeks of starting light therapy treatment.
People who are at risk of seasonal affective disorder include:
SAD more commonly affects people between the ages of 18 and 30. It's more common in women than in men.
If you believe you're at risk of developing SAD, consult a mental health professional. The criteria for a SAD diagnosis is:
Learning how to reverse seasonal affective disorder will allow you to make the most of the winter weather. Use these effective tips or seek emotional support in retirement through your local senior living community. Their resources can help you make the most of your life in Chico, CA.
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