Shorter days, lack of sunlight and colder weather are all contributors to what many call the “Winter Blues”. You may call it this, but it is actually a very real type of depression called Season Affective Disorder or SAD. According to the MAYO Clinic*, the specific cause of seasonal affective disorder remains unknown. Some factors that may come into play include:
1. Your biological clock (circadian rhythm). The reduced level of sunlight in fall and winter may cause winter-onset SAD. This decrease in sunlight may disrupt your body’s internal clock and lead to feelings of depression.
2. Serotonin levels drop. A drop in serotonin, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that affects mood, might play a role in SAD. Reduced sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin that may trigger depression.
3. Melatonin levels may be disrupted by the change in season. This can play a role in sleep patterns and mood.
The Mayo Clinic* offers these tips to help beat the “Winter Blues”: Get outside for some natural sunlight, exercise regularly and stay engaged socially.
Often times during the winter months people stay inside due to inclement weather. It is easy to just stay tucked away in your apartment. Get out and socialize. At Copperfield Hill, with numerous outings and activities, there is always something to do and someone to do it with! Exercise classes, walks in the atrium or even a trip to the grocery store can increase your energy level and lighten your mood.

*www.mayoclinic.org