Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) effectives many people every winter.  The colder weather and darkness at 4pm can leave people feeling isolated being indoors often and experiencing mood changes.  With the recent start of daylight savings time and spring coming around the corner, it’s a great time to start getting back into the swing of things.  If you are someone who is typically impacted by seasonal affective disorder, now is the opportunity to reconnect with others and spend some time outside.  Below are some ways to transition from seasonal depression to the spring season:

• Sunshine!
  • A major contributor to seasonal depression is the lack of sunlight in the winter.  The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s ability to regulate sleep/awake patterns, hormone release, body temperature and alertness.  As the outdoors go from gloomy and grey to sunny and colorful, it’s a great idea to open up curtains or be near windows to catch the sunlight.  Even being outside for a few minutes or on work breaks can positively impact mood.  
• Physical Movement
  • Getting our bodies moving is a great way to relieve SAD symptoms.  Both high and low impact exercises can be done outside.  Some low impact movements include going for a walk and outdoor yoga, while higher intensity could include biking or running.  It’s important to remember that if you did not exercise during the winter, take it easy and slow as you transition back.  Some individuals may get discouraged from going too hard and having an achy body the next day.  
• Spend time outdoors
  • Outdoor activities as the weather starts to become warmer is helpful for being out in the sun. This can be something physical such as gardening and yardwork, or relaxing at a park or your backyard.  Being connected with nature again after hibernating for the winter can elevate your mood and daily motivation.  
• Spring cleaning
  • Cleaning and revamping your space at home will help you feel refreshed.  Going through clothes that you don’t want/need anymore, getting rid of items around the house, and decorating with new colors can lift spirits up.  It’s also a great time for tag sales to start back up, so holding one with all of the stuff you cleaned out can earn you some cash!
• Get reconnected with others
  • The winter can feel isolating, especially if you struggle with SAD.  Reaching back out to friends, family, or other peers can be engaging and uplifting.  Just having someone to talk to feels less isolating and can boost the mood.  Make plans to see friends, have dinner with family, or join a support group.  If you know someone who also struggles with SAD, it’s a great idea to hold each other accountable during this transition and do things together.  

Now that the temperature will begin to get warmer and we have more sunlight, more people will experience a shift in mood and energy.  When you’ve been in a rut for a few months, it can feel challenging to transition from being in bed to being productive.  These are some ways to help this transition into the warmer months and get back into a daily routine for your mental health and well-being.