As we near the middle of winter, many people are struggling with seasonal depression. Mental health professionals said one to three percent of the population deal with this type of depression.
Michelle Martel is a Professor and Director of clinical training in the University of Kentucky’s Psychology Department. Martel said there are ways to lessen symptoms. The licensed Clinical Psychologist explained that finding more opportunities to socialize can help, especially when people dealing with it really don’t want to.
“Psychologists call this opposite action, when you’re feeling least like you want to do things, try to push yourself to get out there. You’ll thank yourself after the fact, even if it’s hard to get going. And if you’re really struggling, sometimes a sun lamp can be helpful. You can purchase that on Amazon, or just taking a vitamin D supplement could be helpful as well,” said Martel.
Martel added that professional help is more available than ever.
“And keep in mind spring is, believe it or not, right around the corner. Just make it through January, with our Kentucky weather, who knows, February might actually be pretty pleasant. So just hang in there. Hang in there through the doldrums, we’re almost out of it,” said Martel.
Martel said getting outside when the weather is nice, getting some sun and physical activity can help lessen feelings of depression.
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