From March to October, I embody the energetic and social spirit that many would admire. I am the kind of parent who organizes neighborhood barbecues, hosts bonfires complete with marshmallows for the kids, and actively participates in school events and fundraisers. I relish in the joy of these activities, often forgetting to share these moments on social media. However, as November approaches and daylight saving time begins, I feel a dramatic shift. My experience with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) transforms me into a version of myself that I hardly recognize.
SAD, which affects approximately 6% of the U.S. population, particularly in colder regions, can leave individuals grappling with feelings of exhaustion and irritability. An additional 14% of adults experience milder forms of seasonal mood changes, commonly referred to as the winter blues. For me, the onset of SAD brings a wave of lethargy, making even basic tasks seem monumental. Some mornings, getting out of bed feels like an insurmountable challenge, leading my partner to shoulder the responsibilities of the day.
This struggle often fosters deep feelings of inadequacy. I wish I could be the mother who prepares a warm breakfast or the partner who stays awake for a late-night conversation, rather than retreating to bed by 8:30 PM. Winter, which is typically associated with celebrations and festivities, morphs into a challenging period for me. Here are some essential insights that those of us living with SAD wish to share:
1. We Are Striving to Cope
Despite my outward appearance, I am battling an internal struggle. I don’t want my children to notice the effort it takes to perform daily tasks like washing my hair or getting dressed. When winter arrives, I often opt for comfortable clothing rather than my usual put-together look. Nevertheless, I strive to be present in my family’s life. I make it to school pickups, prepare dinners, and ensure homework is done, even if I feel as if I’ve just run a marathon by the end of the day.
2. Patience is Appreciated
Living with SAD is not a choice; I don’t want to be irritable or overwhelmed. I wish I could manage the anxiety of holiday planning or the simple act of looking at a sink full of dishes without feeling overwhelmed. Understanding that we cannot simply “snap out” of the depression is crucial. Like everyone else, we yearn to enjoy life fully.
3. Self-Care is Vital
For me, maintaining self-care includes taking a daily dose of multivitamins and vitamin D, as well as spending time near a SAD light. I prioritize attending my noon workout sessions consistently, as the physical activity helps release endorphins that boost my mood. For others, self-care might involve medication, yoga, or dietary changes. It’s essential to find healthy ways to mitigate the effects of SAD.
4. Hope for Improvement
As I eagerly count down to spring and the end of daylight saving time, I find renewed excitement for life. While many dread losing an hour of sleep, I anticipate the sunlight brightening my mornings and extending my afternoons. This anticipation reawakens joy and energy, allowing me to engage in family adventures and social gatherings once more. It’s a hard reality to remember during the bleak winter days, but I hold onto the belief that things will improve.
In conclusion, the journey through Seasonal Affective Disorder is nuanced and challenging, yet it brings with it valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of support. If you’re looking for more information on this topic, consider exploring resources like Resolve for valuable insights and guidance.
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Summary
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) transforms lives during the winter months, leading to feelings of exhaustion and irritability. Those affected strive to maintain normalcy and appreciate patience and understanding from loved ones. Self-care practices are vital in mitigating symptoms, and hope remains for better days as the seasons change.