Winter sees more people seeking help for depression than any other time of the year. Even those who don’t normally suffer from a depressive disorder can find themselves flailing as the days become shorter and the nights colder. A diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is given to the worst of these feelings. This disorder is especially prevalent in areas that see little sunlight during the winter months. There is nothing you can do to change the outside weather or light cycle, but there are things you can do to improve your mental health in winter and alleviate much of the seasonal depression. A mental health treatment center in Texas may be the answer. Santé Center for Healing is here to help you explore some of these ways.
What Causes Seasonal Depression?
People who suffer from general depression may be more apt to be affected by mental health problems in the winter months. There is also a correlation between the lack of natural sunlight and depression. This is very prevalent in areas with little sunlight during the winter. The lack of Vitamin D that we normally get from the sun may also be a factor.
Winter months also give many people less of a chance to get outside and socialize. A normally busy social calendar may change significantly once winter sets in. Consequently, this social isolation tends to increase depression for many people. This is also true of the inability to spend time in nature as nature has been considered a natural healer.
A final factor disturbing mental health in winter is the number of holidays, which can create anxiety and depression. Holidays are about family, and this can be depressing for individuals who have no strong sense of family. Or worse, they may have a very difficult relationship with their family. When they gather, feuds are often reignited. As a result, all of the tension, disagreements and fights that can occur during the holidays, are a recipe for depression.
If you are struggling with mental health disorders, seek professional help from a depression treatment program or an anxiety treatment program.
Enhance Light
The lack of natural sunlight is one of the biggest contributors to poor mental health in winter. This can be alleviated by investing in light bulbs designed to emit rays similar to the sun.
Just 15 minutes a day under these lights has shown to improve mood and energy in those who suffer from seasonal depression. The bulbs can be purchased at many large store chains such as Walmart, on Amazon, or found in some hardware and electricity stores.
Keep Busy
Keeping busy during the winter months doesn’t always seem easy, but you don’t need to be outside to stay active. This may be the perfect time to take up a new indoor hobby such as painting, or maybe you should consider that redecorating project that you keep putting off.
Decluttering is also something that can help improve mental health in winter. Many find that letting go of objects they no longer feel happy having around clears space. This, in turn, serves to lift their mood. The open space seems to unclutter the mind and leave more room for positivity.
Increase Self-Care
Now is not the time to skimp on self-care. Self-care can take on many different forms, including seeking mental health services.
It starts with eating a healthy diet and getting regular sleep. Start a fitness program that feels enjoyable to you. Take time to get a manicure or take long hot showers or soak in a tub of bubble bath. Whatever lifts your spirits and doesn’t leave damage behind is part of self-care.
A Mental Health Treatment Center Can Help
One thing that increases seasonal depression is an increase in the use of drugs and alcohol. You may be looking for mental health facilities in Texas. Therefore, this may be the perfect time for you to reach out to us at 866.238.3154 and seek help for more than the depression you feel.
At Santé Center for Healing in Texas, we understand how seasonal depression can play a role in substance abuse. We want you to know that we believe in treating your entire being and will strive to create a situation from which you can go forth feeling uplifted and stronger in every way.
Rehab for mental health can change your life for the better. Call us today and add a positive note to your mental health in winter.
