Summer usually brings many hot and humid days followed by torrential downpours, which means some people are looking forward to the fall season. As fall seems to be a favorite season with the colors changing on the leaves, cooler temperatures, and decorations, it’s vital to maintain a healthy lifestyle all year round. As the sun sets earlier during the fall and clocks wind back in November, here are some useful tips to keep your mental health in check.
Consider using a light therapy
The rate of seasonal depression is around five percent. This means that one in every 20 Americans is affected by this seasonal disorder. Symptoms usually start in the fall and improve in the spring. If you are one of the many people who have the winter blues consider using a therapy lamp. This device can be purchased in a variety of stores as well as most major online retailers, such as Amazon. Talk to your help care provider to find out more about this therapy.
Eat healthy and get some exercise:
Most adults tend to be more active in the summer as well as have better-eating habits. During the fall and winter months, people tend to stay home more and therefore are less active which leads to more indulgence in fatty and unhealthy foods. The change in activity, as well as diet, can have a negative effect on your mental as well as physical health. As such, it is recommended to get more active and be mindful of what you eat year-round with special attention during the fall and winter seasons. Keeping active and watching your diet can decrease your chance of developing mental as well as a medical illness.
Make sure you are getting enough Vitamin D:
In the summer, many people enjoy going to the beach and relaxing while soaking in the sun. With sunscreen applied liberally during the appropriate times, being at the beach is an excellent way to get Vitamin D into your daily life. However, as the sun begins to set earlier we tend to spend less time outside, therefore getting less vitamin D. Low Vitamin D has been found to be associated with depressed mood. As such it is not unreasonable to take a vitamin D supplement during the fall and winter months.
Seek professional help:
If you find that your mood is starting to decrease and you no longer find enjoyment in life it might be time to seek professional mental health help. This is especially important if you already know that you are one of the many people affected by seasonal changes.