The weather can have a big impact on mental health. Many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is a condition where lack of sunlight and other seasonal weather changes can cause depression, anxiety, and other symptoms of poor mental health. But it’s not just winter weather that can cause seasonal depression and stress.
For same-day health and wellness guidance, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Burlington. Our team of board-certified medical providers can examine your symptoms and help manage them down the road. Simply walk-in to the clinic or schedule your appointment online.
What Is Seasonal Depression?
Seasonal depression is depression that occurs during certain times of the year and is related to the weather. In many cases people have seasonal depression that starts in the fall when the days get shorter, the temperatures get colder, and the weather is rainy or snowy. But seasonal depression can continue into the spring, especially if the cold temperatures hang on into spring months. The rainy weather in the spring combined with ongoing cold temperatures can contribute to spring depression. The most common symptoms of seasonal depression are:
- Feeling listless, sad or down most of the day, nearly every day
- Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Having low energy and feeling sluggish
- Having problems with sleeping too much
- Experiencing carbohydrate cravings, overeating and weight gain
- Having difficulty concentrating
- Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Poor appetite
- Weight loss
- Agitation or anxiety
- Increased irritability
If you’re struggling with seasonal depression there are things that you can do to manage these symptoms and improve your mental health.
How To Reduce Anxiety And Depression In The Spring
Depression is a real mental health condition. But just like any illness there are things that can lessen the severity of the symptoms and help you feel better. If you’re battling seasonal depression some things that can help are:
Exercise
Regular exercise can help boost the brain’s production of serotonin, a hormone that can promote a positive mood and reduce stress. Just 20 minutes of physical activity each day can make a big difference in your mental health as well as your physical health.
Getting More Sleep
Many people experience poor sleep or not getting enough sleep when they have seasonal depression. Establishing a regular bedtime, turning off all screens an hour before you want to go to sleep, and engaging in other healthy bedtime behaviors can improve the quality and amount of sleep.
Listening To Music
Calming music can be a great way to minimize anxiety and stress. Calming music can be anything that’s calming to you. Classical music and instrumental music are more likely to be soothing to the mind than loud or angry music but if that’s what works for you then make yourself a playlist and cue it up whenever you are feeling bad.
Start A Gratitude Journal
Focusing on the relationships and things that you have and that sustain you are a great way to be more positive. You can start a gratitude journal in just five minutes by writing down five things that you’re grateful for today. Then do it again tomorrow. And the day after that.
Get Health And Wellness Guidance You Can Trust
If you’re struggling with seasonal depression you’re not alone. Urgent care providers and staff have lots of resources that can help you. Make an appointment at AFC Urgent Care Burlington today to get the support and guidance you need to stay well physically and mentally. If you have any additional questions about our services, please contact us directly at 781-270-4700.
