Tips offered to cope with seasonal depression
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ALPENA -- As the seasons change, the days get colder and shorter, which may affect people's mental health.
Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression acknowledged by the National Institute of Mental Health and is a common occurrence when people are deprived of sunlight from the seasonal differences.
Symptoms of SAD include depression, oversleeping, overeating, social withdrawal, and overall having low energy and a feeling of worthlessness. According to the American Psychiatric Association, about 5% of the United States' population experiences SAD.
Anna Krueger, assistant clinical director and therapist at Unity Counseling in Alpena, said therapy is a very effective way to improve symptoms from the disorder, but there are other ways to help mitigate the effects.
One of the ways she suggests is light therapy, which involves sitting in front of a white bright light called a therapy lamp for a certain amount of time.
"Light therapy is a simple, safe and effective way of replacing lost access to sunlight which is a huge component of seasonal affective disorder," Krueger wrote in an email. "A primary key to avoiding SAD is to begin this at the beginning of the fall season. This is done by sitting in front of a therapy lamp for 20 to 30 minutes each day."
Other things Krueger suggests include was exercise, taking vitamin D supplements, and increasing protein along with decreasing processed foods in your diet.
Krueger mentioned journaling as a helpful suggestion, saying that recognizing negative and positive things in someone's life is important.
She said an organized routine "can help you stay on task and stay productive." She also said to not be afraid to ask for help.
"We're actually accepting new clients right now at our office," Krueger said. "I know it's difficult right now to find a therapist, especially for children."
Krueger said anyone interested in setting up appointments can send an email to the Unity Counseling email, intake@unitycounseling.com, or by calling the number 989-439-8180.
If you are feeling suicidal or need someone to talk to, you can call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.