Dealing with S.A.D.

Fall has always been my favorite season. Here in Colorado, we get beautiful colors and the lovely smell of crisp leaves. (Anyone else think fall smells similar to old books?) Or, you know, we get snow first and I have to spend a half hour scraping ice off my car. Because Colorado. And climate change, but I'm not going to go on that rant right now.

Instead, let's talk taking care of yourself as the days get shorter. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is pretty common during the fall and winter, and I'll admit I probably suffer from it on occasion myself. Basically SAD is seasonal depression, generally brought on by the lack of sunlight and the cold weather during winter.

Remember I'm not a mental health professional, but some tips I've used and gathered from the Mayo Clinic include:

• Get a light box or sun lamp to emulate sunlight (waking up to light in the morning helps at least remind my brain it's morning time)
• Talk to your doc and/or therapist about your symptoms and potentially medications (or changing your dose if you're already on some)
• Make sure you spend time with friends and family who love and support you no matter what
• My weighted blanket has been a life saver this year; it's like a cozy hug when I need one
• Snuggling pets or plushies helps me, too, especially if they remind me of someone I love
• Make time for your hobbies or other things you enjoy (winter is a fab time to try new books or video games)
• Routines can definitely help, because you don't have to worry about what you're doing--it all becomes habit and helps with feeling stable
• If routines aren't your thing, change things up by rearranging furniture, buying some new art, or reorganizing something

Even if you don't have a diagnosis or think you're suffering from SAD, it's always a good idea to make time to look after yourself. Remember that it isn't selfish, either! It's important!

What do you do to take care of yourself during the darker seasons? I'd love to hear!

- Nonir

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