"Five percent of the U.S. adult population suffers from full-blown seasonal affective disorder (SAD),” says Norman Rosenthal, M.D. 

Norman, a world-renowned psychiatrist, joins us to discuss his must-have tips to combat the winter blues (and prevent them before they even become an issue), plus:

- How SAD can happen in the summer (~00:18)

- The main drivers of SAD (~03:01)

- How SAD affects women vs. men (~07:05)

- How the holidays play a role in SAD (~09:04)

- The role of anticipation in seasonal depression (~13:53)

- How to prepare for the winter blues (~16:32)

- How much sunlight do you need to thrive? (~20:26)

- How to adapt to daylight savings time (~23:22)

- The power of routines for combating SAD (~27:07)

- How climate change impacts seasonal depression (~30:37)

- How social media & technology pay a role in SAD (~37:13)

- The future of SAD research (~39:37)

- The best exercises for mental health (~41:34)

- Why it’s so important to talk about SAD (~43:06)

Trigger warning: This episode includes mentions of suicidal ideation and sexual assault. You’re never alone. If you or someone you know are struggling, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline for confidential support.

Referenced in the episode:

- 5% of U.S. population suffers from SAD.

- Read Norman's Washington Post feature.

- Norman's website.

- Norman's books.

- A study on natural light & circadian rhythm.

- mbg Podcast episode #389, with Jennifer Heisz, Ph.D.

- Start your 30-day free trial with WHOOP.

- Sign up for The Long Game. 

We hope you enjoy this episode sponsored by WHOOP, and feel free to watch the full video on YouTube! Whether it's an article or podcast, we want to know what we can do to help here at mindbodygreen. Let us know at: [email protected].

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