Marquette, MI – On our latest Upper Peninsula Health Plan update, we heard from Jennifer Riley, Community Health Worker with UPHP, with information about SAD, or seasonal affective disorder.
Riley explained the SAD is a type of depression related to changes in seasons and it begins and ends at about the same times every year. She outlined some of the major symptoms of the condition and what some of the causes are believed to be.
She also talked about how SAD is different from the usual “winter blues” we can sometime feel during the winter months and what to do if you suspect you have it, including seeing your doctor.
Riley added that in addition to seeking help from your doctor, there are other things you can do to improve SAD symptoms and lift your mood. First, try making your environment sunnier and brighter. Second, exercise regularly and third, get outside, because even on cold, cloudy days, outdoor light can help.
LISTEN – Jennifer Riley from UPHP with more about SAD, or seasonal affective disorder.
This article was original posted here by mediaBrew Communications Jan. 7, 2019.