3 Essential Tips from a Psychiatrist to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder
Unlocking Happiness 3 Expert Tips to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder and Embrace the Joyful Seasons
Image by Norman Rosenthal, M.D. / mbg Creative October 30, 2023
Winter is coming, folks! Now, before you break out your Stark family sword and start preparing for the White Walkers, let’s focus on a different kind of winter threat. We’re talking about the winter blues, my dear fashionistas.
You see, as the snow starts to fall and the nights get longer, some of us embrace the coziness of the season, while others are plagued by a condition known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Yes, it’s a real thing!
Psychiatrist extraordinaire, Norman Rosenthal, M.D., shares his secrets to fighting off those winter blues in this episode of the VoiceAngel podcast. He’s the pioneer who discovered SAD and developed light therapy as an effective treatment. So, you know he’s legit.
Drumroll, please! Here are Dr. Rosenthal’s top tips to prevent seasonal depression and keep your mental health in check all year round.
Prioritize light
Let there be light, my friends! Dr. Rosenthal warns us that our houses become seriously gloomy during winter. Like seriously, have you seen those overgrown hedges blocking your precious sunlight? Time to trim them back!
But wait, there’s more! Those windows need some serious attention too. Get rid of that grime buildup from the summer, and let the light shine through. Trust me, your mood will thank you.
And here’s a bright idea: design a “bright room” in your home. Picture this: a room filled with windows, adorned with a light coat of paint. Ah, it’s like a sun-soaked paradise! Don’t forget to add extra light fixtures to complete the transformation. And hey, make it a fun DIY project!
Of course, if you’re craving that natural light fix, you can always invest in a sun lamp. Check out our fabulous options here.
Stack your social calendar
Don’t let the cold and darkness freeze your social life, my fabulous friends! Dr. Rosenthal knows that winter can be a challenging time for social butterflies like us. So, he advises you to make plans in advance.
Get that social calendar buzzing with excitement! Call up your pals and say, “Hey, I might turn into a hermit during winter, so let’s plan some epic hangouts. And if I drop the ball, give me a nudge, won’t you?” Trust me, they’ll love you for it.
Oh, and if you’re up for it, plan a winter vacation. Book those flights early, when they’re cheaper than a Black Friday sale, and give yourself something amazing to look forward to. Remember, preparation is key, and who doesn’t love a good getaway?
Try to exercise
Okay, I can already hear the collective groans. But listen up, lovelies, exercise is the ultimate winter mood booster! Not only does it make you feel like a superstar, but it also works wonders for your mental health.
Dr. Rosenthal reminds us that it’s not just about aerobic workouts; resistance training is where the magic happens too. Imagine feeling strong and empowered, with those endorphins flowing through your body. It’s like a happy pill without the side effects!
And here’s a bit of good news: you don’t have to brave the freezing cold for a run. You can get your exercise fix right at home, with some fabulous strength training moves. Think of it as a mini fashion show for your muscles!
The takeaway
Now, my fashionable friends, whether you suffer from SAD or just get the winter blues, Dr. Rosenthal’s tips are pure gold. Soak up that natural light, make those social plans like a pro, and get your body moving like a catwalk model.
Remember, winter can be beautiful and fashionable too! Embrace the season with open arms and a well-prepared mind. And always remember, you’re a fashionista who can conquer anything—rain, snow, or a bad hair day!
We hope you enjoyed this episode sponsored by WHOOP! And don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or YouTube. Stay fabulous!
