Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal affective disorder is also known as the winter blues, or winter depression.

It is normal to need more sleep, eat more, or feel less upbeat during winter. However, if you are so affected that your life is disrupted, you are probably experiencing seasonal affective disorder.

The thing you need most is bright light. The best cure is bright sunlight (a skiing vacation, or a tropical vacation, for instance). Regularly spending time outdoors, even in overcast weather, also helps (e.g. a daily walk). Some people successfully fight seasonal affective disorder by using an artificial light box that replicates the sun's light.

See:

- Overcoming depression

- Proactive psychotherapy

Couples counseling

Mindfulness

Positive / Proactive

Feeling stuck