SNOW on the May 24th long weekend... how sad and depressing is that? I was feeling it.
SADD is a real thing and though I am not overly familiar with the statistics for Newfoundland and Labrador I'm sure there must be others who live here who feel like me! CBC reports here that 2-6% of Canadians 8 times more likely in women. Take a listen: www.cbc.ca/player/play/855836739981/
I'm generally a pretty happy-go-lucky person and so I don't like feeling blue and so I have researched some ways to combat the effects of SADD! Here are some things that I have found helpful, hopefully you will find them helpful too!
1. Maximize your exposure to daylight.Make your house brighter—trim the bushes around your windows and keep your blinds and curtains open during the day. Use bright colors on walls and light-colored upholstery. Get up early to take advantage of as much daylight as possible. If possible, sit near a window at work.
2. Engage in activities that you enjoy.
Take some time off in the winter, instead of using all of your vacation time during the summer. Volunteer or participate in activities that make you happy. Spend time with friends and family members who are caring, supportive, and positive.
3. Practice healthy habits.
Exercise, get enough sleep, eat a well-balanced diet, and reduce stress. Spend time outdoors if possible—skiing is an excellent way to get lots of light and exercise in the winter. Practice good sleep hygiene and make time to relax. Eat healthy foods for more energy and limit caffeine.
4. Take all medicines as directed.
Talk to your health care provider about prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and diet supplements (including vitamin D), as well as any herbs you take. Follow directions carefully and watch for interactions and side effects. Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs.
5. Consider light therapy.
There are several devices available—from battery-powered visors, portable light boxes and special light bulbs, to dawn simulators (lamps that switch on before dawn and gradually light your room, like the sun rising)—but be cautious and talk to your health care provider before trying light therapy.
Whatever the case may be for you. if you think that you are affected by SADD you should talk to your doctor about it and follow his or her lead. Lets take the winter/spring blues by the icicles next season and show them that we are going to be happy and healthy no matter what!
SADD is a real thing and though I am not overly familiar with the statistics for Newfoundland and Labrador I'm sure there must be others who live here who feel like me! CBC reports here that 2-6% of Canadians 8 times more likely in women. Take a listen: www.cbc.ca/player/play/855836739981/
I'm generally a pretty happy-go-lucky person and so I don't like feeling blue and so I have researched some ways to combat the effects of SADD! Here are some things that I have found helpful, hopefully you will find them helpful too!
1. Maximize your exposure to daylight.Make your house brighter—trim the bushes around your windows and keep your blinds and curtains open during the day. Use bright colors on walls and light-colored upholstery. Get up early to take advantage of as much daylight as possible. If possible, sit near a window at work.
2. Engage in activities that you enjoy.
Take some time off in the winter, instead of using all of your vacation time during the summer. Volunteer or participate in activities that make you happy. Spend time with friends and family members who are caring, supportive, and positive.
3. Practice healthy habits.
Exercise, get enough sleep, eat a well-balanced diet, and reduce stress. Spend time outdoors if possible—skiing is an excellent way to get lots of light and exercise in the winter. Practice good sleep hygiene and make time to relax. Eat healthy foods for more energy and limit caffeine.
4. Take all medicines as directed.
Talk to your health care provider about prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and diet supplements (including vitamin D), as well as any herbs you take. Follow directions carefully and watch for interactions and side effects. Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs.
5. Consider light therapy.
There are several devices available—from battery-powered visors, portable light boxes and special light bulbs, to dawn simulators (lamps that switch on before dawn and gradually light your room, like the sun rising)—but be cautious and talk to your health care provider before trying light therapy.
Whatever the case may be for you. if you think that you are affected by SADD you should talk to your doctor about it and follow his or her lead. Lets take the winter/spring blues by the icicles next season and show them that we are going to be happy and healthy no matter what!