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Now that it is overtime and night is falling earlier and earlier, many people may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder – so the New Jersey Department of Social Services wants to propose coping strategies.
About 9% of adults and youth in the Northeast are affected by seasonal depression, a type of seasonal change depression, said Valerie Mielke, Assistant Commissioner of the Mental Health and Addiction Services Division.
Symptoms include a loss of interest in work and daily activities, mood changes, lethargy, feelings of unhappiness and irritation. Expect an increase in appetite, resulting in weight gain, increased sleep, daytime sleepiness, loss of energy and ability to concentrate at work or at home. school.
Mielke said that there are medical treatments that can help. A therapist or psychiatrist may recommend advice, prescribe medication, or recommend light therapy. For that, you have to go into a dark and closed room and expose your body to the light for a while to cheer yourself up.
But there are other coping mechanisms that do not involve a doctor and that can help people with SAR, says Mielke.
Spend time with your friends and family. Do not be alone and isolate yourself. Keep your house well lit. As it gets darker sooner, at least your house will be brighter, hopefully by raising your mood. Take a stroll outside every day, take in the air and clear your head. Flowing blood is another way to chase the blues.
Mielke also suggests practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga and tai chi. Eat healthy meals more balanced. Try to sit near the windows during the day to experience the sunlight.
Mielke said that if you use some of these techniques or if you seek the help of a doctor, these symptoms should start to disappear and should not continue any longer.
If you or any of your acquaintances have seasonal depression, you may contact the New Jersey Mental Health Department at 1-866-202-HELP (4357) or visit www.njmentalhealthcares.org.
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