Seasonal affective depression is a type of depression that happens during a particular season of the year- most often in fall and winter. There is no clear cause of SAD. Some experts think that those seasonal changes disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, the 24-hour clock that regulates how we function during sleeping and waking hours, causing us to be energized and alert sometimes and tired at other times. Less sunlight and shorter days are also thought to be linked to a chemical change in the brain that is part of SAD. Let’s discuss six tips to overcome seasonal depression and its common signs in old age.
Six Tips for Seasonal Depression in Elders
Bright light therapy
It is widely considered an effective solution for treating seasonal affective disorder. Spending time with a specially designed light box stimulates sunshine and helps keep your circadian rhythm stable.
Regular physical activity
Regular exercise can help fight seasonal depression and elevate mood through chemical changes in the brain. Endorphins, serotonin, and other feel-good chemicals are released that help refresh our moods when we exercise.
Participates in social activities
Getting together with family and friends in the winter might be more challenging, but it can help us stay as socially engaged as possible. Similarly, gardening or talking with grandchildren can also help us overcome seasonal depression.
Boost vitamin D intake
Vitamin D levels, which humans obtain naturally from the sunlight, are usually lower or lacking in elders during winter. So, try ways to help you absorb more vitamin D. For example, take supplements or eat vitamin D-rich food and expose yourself to sunlight.
Engage in outdoor activities
Outdoor activities like bicycling, fishing, or fruit picking can help us double-fold. On the one hand, it provides exposure to sunlight; on the other hand, it can help alleviate our mood by engaging in healthy activities.
Counseling hotlines
Seasonal depression can sometimes get severe enough to make us feel excessively alone and agitated. It would be better to consult with a counselor in person or through the hotline to combat such a situation. Unified Caring Association (UCA) provides a 24-hour counseling hotline for its members, which allows five toll-free and confidential counseling hotlines with a well-qualified therapist.
Take home
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in the elderly can pose unique challenges, but there are effective strategies to mitigate its impact. Incorporating bright light therapy, regular exercise, social engagement, adequate vitamin D intake, outdoor activities, and utilizing counseling hotlines can significantly contribute to alleviating symptoms. Recognizing the signs and implementing these six tips can empower seniors to navigate through seasonal depression, fostering better mental well-being during challenging times. As SAD affects a notable percentage of the population, these proactive measures can help overcome its symptoms.