Knowing the signs of seasonal affective disorder is important so you can confidently navigate the winter season. With the right knowledge and coping mechanisms, seasonal emotional balance can be simple.
Do you find yourself feeling blue when the winter season begins? You're not alone. Mental Health America reports that approximately 40% of people suffer from some form of seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder.
In this guide, we will explore some of the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder for seniors in Lewisville, TX, and steps that you can take toward mental wellness in the winter months. Let's begin.
Seasonal affective disorder, colloquially known as the "winter blues," occurs when symptoms of depression appear or increase during the winter. Often, this change is due to fewer daylight hours and colder temperatures.
Seasonal affective disorder affects every sufferer differently, but there are some key signs and symptoms to look out for, such as:
For seniors in assisted living or memory care, medication may be a helpful tool to manage seasonal affective disorder. Often, those with mobility issues or other health problems may find it difficult to navigate the symptoms, so medication can provide extra support.
Some of the most common medications used to treat seasonal affective disorder include:
Maintaining your mental health during the winter can be difficult, but it is still crucial to keep your well-being in check, especially if you suffer from seasonal affective disorder. Here are some key mental health tips to utilize in winter.
With limited daylight hours, it can be all too easy to snuggle up in bed rather than go outside. However, even a little bit of daylight can boost your mood and increase your vitamin D levels.
Go for an early-morning stroll to experience the crisp air, or sit outside when the sun is at its highest to enjoy the warmest temperatures of the day.
Memory care residents may feel confused or disoriented when the days begin to shift during the winter months. Memory care activities designed to retain cognitive abilities and sharpen the mind can be beneficial.
Try activities such as puzzles or games to activate strategic thinking. Creating art can unleash hormones that improve your mood.
Many people gain weight during the winter, due to a combination of factors such as increased celebrations and less exercise. However, a healthy diet year-round is vital for managing both your mental and physical health.
It is completely all right to indulge in the occasional sweets and treats, especially during the holiday season. In general, though, try to stick to healthy, whole foods that are nutrient-dense. Try to limit alcohol intake as well, especially if you are on mental health medication.
Although it may not seem ideal to go outside to exercise, there are plenty of indoor workouts that you can do to keep yourself physically fit. Consider joining an exercise group with other community residents to hold yourself accountable and find others with similar interests.
No. Although it is most common during the winter, seasonal affective disorder can strike during any season. Some people experience it in the summertime, when higher temperatures become unbearable and lead to symptoms of depression.
The tools for combating seasonal affective disorder may be different depending on the season you are afflicted. For instance, if you do not like the longer days during the summer, it may not be beneficial to spend more time outside.
It is best to consult your medical team or a mental health professional about specific coping techniques for different seasons.
Yes. Sometimes, seasonal affective disorder goes away. This can either be random or it can happen due to persistent work on your mental health. In the short term, since the condition itself is seasonal, expect relief from your symptoms toward the end of the season.
It can be. Some studies have shown a first-degree familial connection for seasonal affective disorder.
You may also develop symptoms based on your environment. For example, if you grew up with a depressed parent during the winter months, you may associate the winter season with feelings of malaise or sadness.
If you suspect that you may have inherited seasonal affective disorder, ask your loved ones if they have experienced similar symptoms.
As a senior, it is crucial to recognize the signs of seasonal affective disorder in yourself and loved ones. With this guide, you can effectively treat your seasonal affective disorder and find coping mechanisms to use year after year.
At Discovery Village Castle Hills, our dedicated staff provides senior mood support and assisted living engagement activities to combat depression and other mental health issues for our residents. With exclusive programs such as Sensations Dining and Celebrations Activities and Events, we are focused on providing a well-rounded lifestyle for our senior residents.
Are you interested in transitioning to senior independent living, assisted living, or memory care? Reach out to us today to learn more about our community, or visit us in person in Lewisville, TX. We can't wait to meet you!