The winters in Alaska are long and it’s normal for residents and tourists alike to feel down on occasion while waiting for the weather to warm. If you experience symptoms of depression at the start of every winter, though, and they last until spring, you could have seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This condition can be hard to cope with, especially in a place like the Last Frontier; however, there are ways to manage even the worst of its symptoms. 

3 Tips for Dealing With Seasonal Affective Disorder

1. Try Light Therapy 

Natural light can relieve the symptoms of seasonal depression considerably. If you work during the day, though, the sun may not be up when you leave for work and may already be down by the time you come home. Fortunately, you can simulate the effects of sunlight by sitting in front of a special light box for 30 minutes every day. 

2. Get in Some Gentle Exercise 

Working out every day is challenging enough when you aren't suffering from SAD. It can seem virtually impossible when you have depression, but it can also help you feel immensely better. SAD disrupts the body's circadian rhythm, but exercising can counteract this effect and help your body maintain a normal sleep cycle, which will subsequently reduce fatigue and lethargy. 

3. Know When to Seek Help

Treating moderate to severe cases of SAD calls for more than just home remedies like taking vitamin D supplements or long walks when the sun is out. If you can't seem to get a handle on your symptoms, turn to a counselor. Look for someone who has experience treating seasonal depression and ask about the clinical options for managing your symptoms, like taking prescription medication. 

If you’re suffering from seasonal depression, turn to Sondra Sexton-Jones. Based in Juneau, this licensed counselor has been helping individual patients, couples, and families for more than 25 years. To reach out and request an appointment, fill out the form on her website or call (907) 586-3313.