Cure The Winter Blues: Surefire Ways To Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder

Get More Sunlight

For some individuals with SAD, they may be experiencing low blood levels of vitamin D, which naturally comes from sunlight. For an individual to improve their vitamin D levels, it is suggested that they get outside and catch some rays of sunlight when the sun is shining. Go for an afternoon stroll for a few minutes or a run in the park, as the sun is at its peak around noon. If it is too cold to venture outside for some natural light, try sitting beside a sunny window for a few minutes a day, either relaxing or reading. Another alternative is to go suntanning for a couple of minutes once or twice a week, however, be aware that too much and strong UV light, such as from a tanning bed, increases the chances of developing skin cancer.

Another way to receive more sunlight is by using dawn simulators, which can help some individuals with SAD. Specifically, these devices are alarm clocks that gradually wake up an individual with light that grows in intensity, mirroring the effects of the sun. Different models are available, but the best ones use full-spectrum light, which is the closest to natural sunlight. A study done by Russian researchers published in the Journal of Affective Disorders discovered that these simulators were as effective as light therapy for patients with a mild form of SAD.

Sources Of Vitamin D

For some individuals with SAD, they may be experiencing low blood levels of vitamin D, which naturally comes from sunlight. To improve vitamin D levels within the body, an individual should get outside for some natural rays of light. Low levels of vitamin D are connected to SAD, as research published in the Journal of Medical Hypotheses confirmed this theory. Another study in the journal Nutrients also discovered that individuals who consumed vitamin D supplements saw a significant improvement in their depression symptoms.

Besides natural sunlight, a great substitute for increasing your daily intake of vitamin D is either through supplementation or foods, such as cheese, egg yolks, orange juice, fatty fish, beef liver, and fortified dairy products. Speak to your physician about your vitamin D levels and if taking supplements is appropriate for you.