Winter Is Here: Are You Prepared For Seasonal Depression?

New York, NY - The clocks have been turned back and the darkness of winter is arriving. Wintertime means vastly different things to different people, but for many, it is a time of depression.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression with a decidedly seasonal flavor, linked closely to the darkness of winter. Those affected by seasonal depression find themselves depressed in the fall and winter months, but much happier in the light-filled spring and summer months. In addition, the stress of the holiday season, between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, can trigger a seasonal depression in many.

Dr. Frederic Flach, psychiatrist and author of THE SECRET STRENGTH OF DEPRESSION, 3rd Revised Edition (Hatherleigh Press, 2002), offers these tips for those who feel lonely, sad or stressed-out during the holiday season:

ACCEPT YOUR FEELINGS
Acknowledge that the season can be sad and stressful at times, and that it’s okay to feel that way.

BE GENEROUS
Concentrate on making someone else happy.

FORGIVE
If you have to spend time with some people you’d rather not be with, consider it an opportunity for you to develop courage and kindness. Discover in yourself the tremendous healing power of forgiveness.

AVOID EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL USE
Alcohol is a depressant and its effects can linger for days afterwards.

NURTURE YOUR SOUL
Try not to get caught up in the materialistic crush by keeping in mind that these holidays are a very important spiritual event, too!

SEEK OUT LIGHT
Many people with seasonal depression can be significantly helped with light therapy. Regular exposure for anywhere from 2-6 hours a day to 2500 lux of full spectrum light seems to induce improvement within a few days.

If all these strategies fail, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. Remember that depression is not a weakness—it is a perfectly normal reaction to all kinds of stress. But if depression lingers for weeks or months, or if at any point you feel suicidal, get help.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Frederic Flach, M.D., K.H.S., is an internationally recognized psychiatrist and author. In 1996, he was awarded the Maxine Mason award by the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI).

Dr. Flach’s highly acclaimed books include THE SECRET STRENGTH OF DEPRESSION; PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER AGAIN; A NEW MARRIAGE, A NEW LIFE; RESILIENCE; THE SECRET STRENGTH OF ANGELS; and FAITH, HEALING, AND MIRACLES. These books are available from booksellers everywhere or you can call 800-528-2550. For more information, please visit www.hatherleighpress.com