As the seasons change, and we get closer to winter, many people notice their mood beginning to ebb along with the daily sunshine. It's easy to feel concerned, as the sunlight starts to wane. Often it can feel like you are losing your sense of well being because sunlight provides a natural mood elevator for many. Melancholy feelings around this time of year are the norm for many people; and for some, it can reach the intensity of a syndrome known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
However, it is not necessary to suffer as natural light diminishes. There are many forms of help available. Here are a few options:
Light Boxes provide a source of light that simulate natural sunlight. Individuals expose themselves to the lamps indirectly (don't look right at a Light Box), for a length of time ranging from minutes to hours, usually first thing in the morning.
Dawn Simulators imitate a sunrise allowing you to wake up more gently than the ordinary alarm clock. Many also have a sunset feature which can help with falling asleep at night.
Strong Daylight Bulbs, found in hardware stores or online, are popular with many people trying to bring a little more light into their homes. When people are struggling with this, counseling can be especially useful to prevent the depression from getting worse or help alleviate it if it's begun. If you notice you are starting to feel low, it is best to get help as soon as possible, to avoid needless suffering. In the meantime, try to spend as much time as possible outdoors-even if just a little bit every day. Bundle up, but get outside, get some exercise, and get your natural endorphins going.