5 Ways to Bounce Back From Seasonal Affective Disorder l Tips on Recovering From SAD

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Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a seasonal type of depression that starts when the seasons change. When the winter starts to set in, the shorter days and less sunlight make some people feel lethargic and depressed. Other symptoms from the condition may also include changes in weight, insomnia and chronic fatigue. "The lack of sunlight increases the body’s production of a body chemical called melatonin. Melatonin is what helps regulate sleep and can cause symptoms of depression," the Mayo Clinic reported. How can a person bounce back from SAD which begins and ends at the same time every year? Most people suffering from SAD are not in the mood to take action as they are mentally and physically drained. However, you need to make a move if you are going to bounce back from SAD. Here are 5 ways to get you started.

Reach Out For Help

You need sources to help you get out of this funk. We know that you might want to continue to withdraw and to remain isolated, but this will make it worse. Another feeling that may crop up is the guilt you feel for ignoring your relationships. Don't buy into this as remaining connected is vital to your mental health. "Finding social support is absolutely essential to depression recovery," HelpGuide.org recommended. Reach out to a trusted family member or trusted friend to start the transition process. If you don’t feel that you have anyone to support you, it’s never too late to build new friendships. You can meet people at church, at support groups, dog parks or in your neighborhood.

Eat Better

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You heard it before, but it needs to be addressed again--you need to eat better. You need a diet that doesn't center on fast food, salt, sugar, caffeine and empty calories that make you feel worse. Foods such as fish, tofu, eggs, low-fat yogurts and leafy greens can make you feel better and offer you more energy. Add nuts to your diet like almonds and walnuts to boost your mood and to help you feel full. Also, vitamin B will help your mood, give you more stamina and it is good for PMS symptoms. A piece of dark chocolate doesn't hurt, either. Dark chocolate has serotonin and signals the body to produce more of it. This feel-good compound is the reason we go to chocolate when we are depressed.