Seasonal Blues...S.A.D.

They've given a name to it. While I am a Licensed Social Worker, I do not have the credentials to diagnose. Therefore, for the sake of this blog I will refer to Seasonal Affective Disorder, ironically with the acronym that spells SAD, to seasonal or winter blues. I can just about guarantee that many of us or even most of us have experienced feelings of the blues as the fall/autumn begins to settle in. Studies show and common sense tells us that the colder temperatures and the shorter days have an affect on our mind, body and spirt. The image lists some of the things that we may experience. I for one have noticed a difference in myself and my coworkers in the past few weeks. I would even venture to say that it may have a greater affect on educators that have off during the summer months. Arriving back to work is a clear indication that the summer is just about over and once the days get shorter and many of us wake up to darkness and even drive in the dark, our mood changes are recognizable.

Science and psychology tell us that this is normal. To me, it is. Why wouldn't the sudden change of the length of day light or the drastic temperature drop have an affect on our overall mood?

So, what do you do to beat it? Instead of complaining about the temperature, layer up and go for a walk. Feel the brisk breeze on your face. Admire the foliage. The changing of the leaves is incredible. When you're inside and it suddenly gets dark and it's only 6 o'clock, turn on a few lights. Even plants come alive from artificial lighting. Have family fun time. Make popcorn and watch movies. Take some time and read a new book. Join the gym. Call a friend and start your holiday shopping early. Go to bed earlier; your body needs the rest. The most important thing is to be aware that you may be experiencing signs of seasonal blues. I know that I have begun to experience some of the things listed. I'm not going to diagnose myself, but I am going to pay attention and do things to reverse it. It's very important for me to recognize the signs since I am one that has experienced situational depression.

God in his infinite wisdom chose to have the seasons change in certain areas of the world. As the leaves fall off the trees and the trees prepare to rest so should we. It is a time to allow our bodies to shed the old, rest and rejuvenate. Seasons change and so should we. I can't wait to see what the new beginning of spring will bring.

So, here's to the seasons changing. Let's look at them differently. Each one has a meaning and a reason. When your mind, body and spirit feel off kilter, it is not your imagination. You are adjusting to change. Find ways to enjoy it.

#newseasons

#newblessings

#newbeginnings

#changeisgood

#mindbodyspirit

#beblessedandbewell

I do not own the rights to the images.