SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder

If gray days make you feel gray but you are happy when skies are blue, you may be extra sensitive to levels of natural light. Serotonin, a feel good chemical in the brain, can be lowered by seasonal changes in the amount of daylight. If your symptoms are severe, you may have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Women are affected by SAD 400% more than men. A light box used in combination with an antidepressant can be a highly effective treatment. Light therapy mimics outdoor light and causes a biochemical change in the brain that lifts the mood and relieves SAD symptoms. If you don't want to invest in the expense of of light box, then be sure to get outside when the sky clears. A little fresh air in the returning sunlight may be just the boost you need.

Survive the Hour - Survive the Day

Do you feel beyond blue? Sad? Sore? Hopeless? Is the prospect of getting through the day beyond you? That's okay. Focus on getting through the next hour first. Journaling is an excellent way to get some perspective and let off some pressure. You don't need a fancy journal or a special place to write. An old notebook and a lapdesk in bed will do. Write about a fond memory you have. Think about a place you would like to visit. Share a favorite Bible verse and why it means something to you. Don't worry about spelling or grammar. This is for you.

Does journaling seem too intimidating? That's okay. Start smaller. Make a list instead. Make a list of ten things you are grateful for. Make a list of ten people who have impacted your life in a positive manner. Make a "bucket list" of ten things you want to do before you kick the bucket. You might be surprised. Thinking about positive experiences and people and dreams may help chase the blues away. If not for the day, at least for the moment. :)