5 Miraculous Natural Treatments For Seasonal Depression
Introduction
Seasonal depression is a type of depression that is related to the change of seasons. It typically begins in the fall and lasts through the winter months. For some people, it may start in the spring or summer. Symptoms of seasonal depression include fatigue, low energy, increased appetite, cravings for carbohydrates, weight gain, and difficulty concentrating.
Seasonal depression is a real medical condition that can be treated. If you are struggling with seasonal depression, there are several things you can do to help yourself. These include getting outside in the sunlight, exercising, and eating a balanced diet. You can also try some of the following natural treatments for seasonal depression.
Is it really a thing?
Yes, seasonal depression is a real thing and it is incredibly common. It’s estimated that this disorder affects up to 10% of the population, although it’s likely higher. And while many think of seasonal depression in the winter months, some people may be affected in the spring or summer. The cause of seasonal depression isn’t completely certain. However, there are several theories. These include the impact of changes to daylight hours, disruptions to the body’s internal clock, and changes to hormones like serotonin, which help regulate your mood.
So what are some possible treatments?
Given that the cause of seasonal depression is still not fully understood, the treatments for this condition are mostly aimed at managing symptoms. There is a range of natural treatments that may help, including changes to your lifestyle, exposure to sunlight, vitamin D intake, adding probiotics and omega-3s to your diet, and using neurofeedback therapy. Let’s take a closer look at these.
Number one: A change in scenery
One of the best natural treatments for seasonal depression is to make a change to your environment. It doesn’t have to be anything drastic; even a staycation or weekend trip can make a huge difference in how you’re feeling. The key here is to get out of your regular environment and break your routine. You can also try to spend more time outdoors in nature, taking long walks and appreciating the beauty around you. Being out in nature can shift your mindset and lift your mood.
Number two: Sunlight
Exposure to sunlight is a powerful natural remedy for seasonal depression. Sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D and triggers the production of serotonin; these are both important factors in our mood and mental well-being. Go for a walk or hike during the day whenever possible, and if you’re stuck indoors, open the blinds and let the sunlight stream in. If you’re looking for more of a commitment, investing in a sun lamp that mimics natural sunlight can be helpful.
Number three: Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for our physical and mental health. Low levels of this nutrient have been linked to depression, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough. Vitamin D can be obtained through foods like salmon, sardines, egg yolks, mushrooms, and fortified milk and cereal. Most people, however, will not get enough through food alone, making supplements the best option. Taking a vitamin D supplement can help improve your mood and energy levels during the winter months.
Number four: Probiotics and omega-3s
Probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids are two other important supplements that can help alleviate symptoms of seasonal depression. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance in your gut, while omega-3s are essential fatty acids found in fish oil and other foods. Both of these supplements have been found to have mood-boosting effects and can help reduce the symptoms of seasonal depression.
Number five: Neurofeedback Therapy
Neurofeedback therapy is a form of therapy that helps the patient become aware of their own mental and physical state. Through a series of exercises and mindfulness practices, a patient can become more aware of their emotions and thoughts, leading to an improved sense of self-regulation. Neurofeedback therapy may help people with seasonal depression by teaching them how to cope with the symptoms. Research suggests that it can be an effective way to manage depression and anxiety, so it may be worth considering.
Seasonal depression is a real medical condition that can have a significant impact on your life. The good news is that several natural treatments may help alleviate the symptoms. A few of these include making a change to your environment, getting more sun exposure, taking vitamin D supplements, adding probiotics and omega-3s to your diet, and trying neurofeedback therapy. So if you’re struggling with seasonal depression, give one or more of these treatments a try and see how you feel.
Click below to learn more about how neurofeedback therapy can help you –