If you find yourself feeling down and out winter after winter, you may be experiencing some form of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). While the winter blues affect many people, if you feel sad for long bouts at a time or struggle with severe feelings of depression, you should schedule an appointment with a therapist. If you live in Rochester, NY, Laurie Burns LCSW-R CGP will help you get back on your feet. 

The licensed professional counselor explains that seasonal affective disorder occurs as the days get shorter during the winter, meaning that people are exposed to less natural sunlight. In individuals with SAD, this produces feelings of depression that usually last throughout the season but become less severe or dissipate entirely with spring.

To help you keep SAD at bay, the Rochester therapist offers these three self-care tips:

• Keep Sleep Patterns Regular: The importance of sleep can never be understated, especially when you’re experiencing SAD or any other form of depression. In many cases, waking up and going to bed at the same time each day will keep you more alert and less fatigued throughout the day.
• Make Time To Exercise: Although you may not feel up to it, it’s a good idea to get into an exercise routine. Physical activity boosts serotonin levels which, in turn, boost your mood.
• Get Some Sun: Taking in some extra rays of sunlight is perhaps one of the most effective things you can do to combat SAD or the winter blues. Whether you head outdoors for a while or simply sit near a sunny window, this is one technique that’ll certainly help you feel better.

To learn more recommendations for alleviating SAD or to contact a therapist for professional counseling services, call Laurie Burns LCSW-R CGP at (585) 734-6826. To learn more about the practice,  you can also visit her website and Facebook page.