Q: how do you cope with depression in the darkness of the winter months without getting too depressed
Hi, Kathy. Winter depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is thought to result from sensitivity to seasonal changes in natural light. SAD is far more prevalent in northern climes. The best fix for SAD is more exposure to light. For some people, outdoor walks work well. Even a cloudy winter sky delivers way more light than normal household light. An outdoor walk also delivers the benefits of exercise, which has an antidepressant effect.
Many patients view light boxes as an essential survival tool. Light boxes at close range approximate an equatorial sun. Thirty minutes daily (preferably in the morning) generally does the job. Follow carefully the manufacturer's directions.
try reading on the snowy days!
I actually have one of those sun lamp lights. You sit in front of the really bright beams for about 15 min. each dreary day. It stimulates the same the same thingd in your brain that the sun stimulates. Research light therapy for seasonal depression. I also have an alarm clock that simulates a sunrise. I only use that part in the winter months.
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