Chances are that right now, you’re living in a part of the US that has limited sunshine this winter and are feeling the effects of lack of sunlight. You’re not alone, in fact, it’s estimated that over 10 million Americans struggle with seasonal affective disorder or SAD. Women seem to be more diagnosed than men, and for some, the condition can be additionally challenging and serious if there are existing underlying mental health concerns.
Seasonal affective disorder symptoms can range from:
- Oversleeping (hypersomnia)
- Overeating, specifically craving for carb rich foods like bread, chips, & cookies.
- Weight Gain
- Social withdrawal
- Lethargy
Ideas we can put in place to help support us through the winter months.:
“LIGHTEN” YOUR MOOD
Use a “happy” light. Getting outside in nature is key, but sometimes it’s not an option for those living in cold climates. Light therapy boxes mimic the sun, without harmful UV rays while providing full-spectrum light which triggers serotonin and helps regulate melatonin, thus improving sleep and mood.
KNOW YOUR VITAMIN D LEVELS!
Vitamin D plays a vital role in our innate immune system and is involved in serotonin expression. To ensure you’re getting enough, we recommend getting your vitamin D tested. Pure Prescriptions offers testing through our partners at Ultra Labs: Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Total, Immunoassay
STAY CONNECTED!
Talk to someone. It’s important to maintain friendships through the winter months to keep connected and socially stimulated. While some hibernating can be beneficial for us busy humans, it’s important that we check ourselves too, and ensure there’s a balance and we’re not too isolated. If you’re struggling with depression, it’s ok to ask for help and seek professional advice too.
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“Vitamin D is one of those nutrients that is absolutely vital. There’s not an organ system that isn’t influenced in some way by vitamin D. We also know that the immune system is very dependent on normal levels of vitamin D. Your immune cells have vitamin D receptors on them, and immune cells don’t have receptors for something unless it’s very vital to their normal function. Vitamin D is very important for your general immune health.”
—Dr Chad Larson
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Tracy comes to us with extensive knowledge from the holistic health field. She graduated from Natural Success School of Holistics, with her Holistic Health Practitioner certificate. Tracy also holds a certificate in Nutrition and Bachelors in Holistic Nutrition from Clayton College School of Natural Health.
Previously, Tracy was co-owner of an environmentally friendly massage center for several years, located in Encinitas, California. Her holistic massage center focused not only on holistic massage, but also client education on the importance of recycling and reducing waste, choosing healthy products, and proper nutrition.
Resources: NIMH » Seasonal Affective Disorder (nih.gov)
