Beat The Winter Blues with EFT Tapping By Karen St. Clair , AAMET Certified EFT Practitioner
ourselves in front of the television or hiding under the covers to stay warm. How do you know when a seasonal slump is a more seri- ous problem?
L
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a category of depression that emerges in particular seasons of the year. Most people notice SAD symptoms starting in the fall and increasing during the winter months, but a few people experience a spring/ summer version. Let’s take a look at some common questions you might have about this disorder.
What are the Most Common Symptoms of SAD?
SAD symptoms might include a de- pressed mood, feelings of hopelessness, a lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep and appetite or a loss of pleasure in activities you once loved. Per- sons with the winter version of SAD might also notice the following unique symptoms:
ife naturally slows down in winter. The days grow shorter, light becomes scarce, and we respond by planting
SAD symptoms might include a depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness, a lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep and appetite or a loss of pleasure in activities you once loved.
• Heaviness in arms and legs • Frequent oversleeping
• Cravings for carbohydrates/ weight gain
• Relationship problems
Is SAD a “Lighter” Version of Major Depression?
No, even though this is a common misconception. SAD is a “specifier” which is just a fancy word for a more specific kind
or subtype of depression. Persons with SAD experience the symptoms at a particular time of year. With the changing of seasons, their depression goes into remission. If you notice this switch happening several times over two years, then you may be experi- encing SAD.
What Causes SAD?
Researchers have yet to uncover the specific cause for SAD. We do know how- ever, that several factors are at play. The reduction in sunlight in winter can throw your biological clock out of whack and re- duce levels of serotonin (a brain chemical that regulates your mood) and melatonin (a chemical which regulates sleep and mood). People who live farther from the equator or have a family history of depression also experience the symptoms more frequently.
What Can I Do to Help Myself Today? There are lifestyle changes that can
improve symptoms and lift your mood. You might try going outside more often, getting as much sunlight as possible, exercising, avoiding drugs and alcohol, getting plenty
www.elmmaine.com 11
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
