The shorter, darker days of winter aren’t just an inconvenience – for millions of people, they trigger a genuine form of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). As someone who’s battled the winter blues for years, I’ve learned that understanding the science behind SAD and having practical strategies can make the difference between merely surviving winter and actually thriving during the colder months.

Key Takeaways

• SAD is clinical depression that follows a seasonal pattern, affecting about 5% of US adults for nearly half the year
• Reduced sunlight exposure disrupts brain chemistry, affecting serotonin levels and melatonin production
• Light therapy using 10,000 lux boxes for 20-30 minutes each morning is effective for 50-80% of people with SAD
• Consistent morning routines and strategic exposure to natural light can significantly reduce symptoms
• A combination of treatment approaches including therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments typically works better than any single method

Read more: https://unfiltereddose.com/beat-the-winter-blues-a-real-guide-to-sad/