TABLE OF CONTENT
We don’t usually notice when daylight incrementally decreases throughout the year. This is because we’re so immersed in our work and daily routines, we forget to look around.
However, noticing decreasing daylight may be crucial for those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Individuals with mental health conditions and those impacted by changes can find themselves in trouble as the season changes.
What is The Winter Solstice?
The gloomy days usually start before the winter solstice approaches.
But what exactly is the winter solstice?
The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year. It occurs every year on December 21st. When the sun is directly on top of the tropic of Capricorn, the day becomes extremely short and dark. This is why 21st December is the darkest day of the year.
An important article by Sherri Melrose explores the relationship between reduced sunlight and levels of vitamin D in the human body. Vitamin D is essential to produce serotonin, a hormone responsible for regulating mood.
For individuals suffering from seasonal changes, this shift in vitamin D can affect mood and energy.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
As discussed above, winter brings with it many challenges. However, one critical challenge is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of clinical depression triggered by reduced levels of sunlight. Symptoms include:
- Oversleeping
- Trouble Concentrating
- Changes in Appetite
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
When the body doesn’t absorb enough sunlight, it becomes deficient in vitamin D. This impacts the levels of serotonin and melatonin in the body. Irritable mood and troubled sleep are signs you might be suffering from a lack of sunlight.
According to Dr. Kim Penberthy, a Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Sciences and an expert in SAD,
“If left untreated, SAD can lead to a range of risks and complications, as can any ongoing depressive symptoms.”
Dr. Kim Penberthy
Ways to Improve Your Mental Health
Although it is one of the darkest times of the year, winter solstice is also a time of new beginnings. Some strategies to help you enjoy winters while boosting your mental health are discussed below.
-
Connect With People
We need good people around us to provide emotional support, a sense of belonging, and love and spiritual nourishment. This is possible only if you make the effort to step out of your comfort zone and form meaningful connections.
-
Be Physically Active
Exercise is one of the best ways to improve your mood and regulate hormones. Exercise helps release chemicals that boost mood and self-esteem. It not only helps improve physical health, but enhances mental health.
If you’re unsure where to start, begin by walking every day for a couple of minutes. If you do it consistently, you will notice a huge difference in your energy.
-
Focus on Growth
Continuously learning is important to grow, boost self-confidence, and develop a sense of purpose. If you want to ensure your personal growth and challenge your creative side, continue to learn as much as you can.
-
Give Back and Be Kind
Giving back is vital, especially if you’ve been blessed with everything you desire. Acts of kindness and giving back to the community induct positive feelings. They also help you make genuine connections with others.
-
Live in the Present
While it is easy to relapse and live in the past, remember, how you spend the present will define your future. Practising mindfulness will allow you to appreciate the present moment, reduce stress, and improve mental wellbeing.
Steps to Take During the Winter Solstice
As the period of darkness comes to an end, a new journey begins. Winter solstice is a reminder that brighter days are coming up ahead. Utilise every opportunity you get to reflect on your past and plan for what’s to come.
If you are struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder, this can help put things in perspective. Following are some of the ways you can take advantage of this time:
-
Set Objectives & Reflect
Goals and objectives keep you motivated. If you are ready to conquer your next win, create a roadmap for personal and professional growth. Reflect on your past experiences and identify areas for improvement.
-
Focus Your Energy & Meditate
Direct your efforts toward important projects and plans for the coming year. While it is easy to be lazy and procrastinate, focus your energy on becoming a better version of yourself. Use this time to practise mindfulness and formulate your next steps.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
While working on your mental well-being, avoid these mistakes:
- Don’t rely only on technology and social media for relationships
- Balance is crucial; extreme measures aren’t necessary
- Choose sustainable activities that fit into your life
- Maintain personal boundaries while connecting with others
Bottom Line
While self-help strategies are beneficial, they’re not a substitute for professional advice. If you have been struggling with your mental health or have symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, it’s time to consult a professional.
At Concise Medico, we believe in the power of professional guidance to inspire better self-care. If the winter has impacted your mood beyond simple winter blues, contact us for support.
Remember, your body can endure almost anything; it’s your mind you need to convince. Embrace the winter solstice as a time for reflection, renewal, and setting the stage for a brighter future.
We don’t usually notice when daylight incrementally decreases throughout the year. This is because we’re so immersed in our work and daily routines, we forget to look around.
However, noticing decreasing daylight may be crucial for those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Individuals with mental health conditions and those impacted by changes can find themselves in trouble as the season changes.
What is The Winter Solstice?
The gloomy days usually start before the winter solstice approaches.
But what exactly is the winter solstice?
The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year. It occurs every year on December 21st. When the sun is directly on top of the tropic of Capricorn, the day becomes extremely short and dark. This is why 21st December is the darkest day of the year.
An important article by Sherri Melrose explores the relationship between reduced sunlight and levels of vitamin D in the human body. Vitamin D is essential to produce serotonin, a hormone responsible for regulating mood.
For individuals suffering from seasonal changes, this shift in vitamin D can affect mood and energy.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
As discussed above, winter brings with it many challenges. However, one critical challenge is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of clinical depression triggered by reduced levels of sunlight. Symptoms include:
- Oversleeping
- Trouble Concentrating
- Changes in Appetite
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
When the body doesn’t absorb enough sunlight, it becomes deficient in vitamin D. This impacts the levels of serotonin and melatonin in the body. Irritable mood and troubled sleep are signs you might be suffering from a lack of sunlight.
According to Dr. Kim Penberthy, a Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Sciences and an expert in SAD,
“If left untreated, SAD can lead to a range of risks and complications, as can any ongoing depressive symptoms.”
Dr. Kim Penberthy
Ways to Improve Your Mental Health
Although it is one of the darkest times of the year, winter solstice is also a time of new beginnings. Some strategies to help you enjoy winters while boosting your mental health are discussed below.
-
Connect With People
We need good people around us to provide emotional support, a sense of belonging, and love and spiritual nourishment. This is possible only if you make the effort to step out of your comfort zone and form meaningful connections.
-
Be Physically Active
Exercise is one of the best ways to improve your mood and regulate hormones. Exercise helps release chemicals that boost mood and self-esteem. It not only helps improve physical health, but enhances mental health.
If you’re unsure where to start, begin by walking every day for a couple of minutes. If you do it consistently, you will notice a huge difference in your energy.
-
Focus on Growth
Continuously learning is important to grow, boost self-confidence, and develop a sense of purpose. If you want to ensure your personal growth and challenge your creative side, continue to learn as much as you can.
-
Give Back and Be Kind
Giving back is vital, especially if you’ve been blessed with everything you desire. Acts of kindness and giving back to the community induct positive feelings. They also help you make genuine connections with others.
-
Live in the Present
While it is easy to relapse and live in the past, remember, how you spend the present will define your future. Practising mindfulness will allow you to appreciate the present moment, reduce stress, and improve mental wellbeing.
Steps to Take During the Winter Solstice
As the period of darkness comes to an end, a new journey begins. Winter solstice is a reminder that brighter days are coming up ahead. Utilise every opportunity you get to reflect on your past and plan for what’s to come.
If you are struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder, this can help put things in perspective. Following are some of the ways you can take advantage of this time:
-
Set Objectives & Reflect
Goals and objectives keep you motivated. If you are ready to conquer your next win, create a roadmap for personal and professional growth. Reflect on your past experiences and identify areas for improvement.
-
Focus Your Energy & Meditate
Direct your efforts toward important projects and plans for the coming year. While it is easy to be lazy and procrastinate, focus your energy on becoming a better version of yourself. Use this time to practise mindfulness and formulate your next steps.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
While working on your mental well-being, avoid these mistakes:
- Don’t rely only on technology and social media for relationships
- Balance is crucial; extreme measures aren’t necessary
- Choose sustainable activities that fit into your life
- Maintain personal boundaries while connecting with others
Bottom Line
While self-help strategies are beneficial, they’re not a substitute for professional advice. If you have been struggling with your mental health or have symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, it’s time to consult a professional.
At Concise Medico, we believe in the power of professional guidance to inspire better self-care. If the winter has impacted your mood beyond simple winter blues, contact us for support.
Remember, your body can endure almost anything; it’s your mind you need to convince. Embrace the winter solstice as a time for reflection, renewal, and setting the stage for a brighter future.
