Light Therapy Benefits for Winter Seasonal Depression
During the colder months, many people struggle with winter seasonal depression, which affects their overall quality of life. When sunshine is scarce, many Americans experience difficulties associated with their mental health, mainly due to a decrease in daylight hours that can easily trigger feelings of sadness. Winter Seasonal Depression, which is a part of what is called Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a kind of depression occurring at a certain period of the year, usually during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight. Sometimes it is called Winter Depression or Winter SAD because the symptoms are more apparent and severe during these months. For those who suffer from winter blues, a breakthrough therapy called light therapy offers a natural approach to such feelings, simulating sunlight exposure that reverses the symptoms of this common condition. The exact cause of SAD in Winter isn’t fully understood, but it is often linked to reduced exposure to sunlight, which may affect the body’s internal clock. It is also known that this lack of natural light upsets the body’s circadian rhythms and serotonin levels, leading to mood changes. As daylight dwindles during colder months, we all feel more exhausted, and irritable with a general sense of gloom. Suspected Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder The change in seasons can impact the balance of certain hormones in those vulnerable to Winter Seasonal Depression. These changes contribute to significant fatigue and mood swings that are quite common when winter arrives. Genetic predisposition has been seen to play a role in vulnerability to SAD. For example, women are much more affected than men. Nutritional deficiencies can worsen Winter Depression symptoms too. With fewer fresh fruits available during chilly months, vitamin D intake often decreases drastically since it naturally comes from sun exposure enjoyed [...]
