Top 9 Ways to Treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

People with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) have a marked change in personality by the change in seasons – from happy and relaxed to depressed and tense.

What are the causes of seasonal affective disorder?

1. According to David H. Avery, M. D., one theory suggests that there is a delay in the timing of the body clock that causes temperature minimum to occur at 6:00 AM rather than, at the normal time of, 3:00 AM.  As a result, they are attempting to wake up when physiologically it is the middle of the night.
2. According to David H. Avery, M. D., another theory is that the secretion of the hormone melatonin is responsible for the low mood and lack of energy.

What are the top 9 ways to treat the seasonal affective disorder?

1. Get as much natural light as possible between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM.
2. Eat foods containing amino acids tryptophen.  Foods such as turkey, milk, and egg whites.
3. Avoid self-medication with alcohol and caffeine.
4. Engage in regular aerobic exercise.
5. Eat lunch outside because morning light can reduce the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.
6. Maintain a regular schedule to synchronize your body clock.
7. Make a conscious effort to keep the blinds or curtains open as much as possible during daylight hours.
8. Light therapy can be helpful if it is used under the supervision of a qualified professional, according to David H. Avery, M. D.
9. If possible, move to a sunnier climate.