More and more newspapers and news stations are doing stories or reports on Seasonal Affective Disorder and the winter blues.
Here is an article that a station in Georgia did a couple of days ago:
Does weather affect your mood?
ALBANY, GA (WALB)- Southwest Georgia has been off to a wet and dreary start for the first half of the year. So far we’ve experienced weeks of raining and freezing temperatures.
According to the Associated press, one in four Americans believe weather affects your mood. Bad weather can go beyond making people feel sad or depressed.
It’s actually called Seasonal Affective Disorder. And a good sign is if you’ve noticed yourself being down for extended periods of time especially during winter months.
Cold, gloomy and wet weather could rain in on your perfect day. “I don’t like the rainy weather. It makes me cold and sad, ” said Kacey Graber.
Four out of ten Americans agree with her. They believe weather can affect your mood. “A lot of times it has a bad affect on people because they have to stay inside. And staying inside gets really aggravating,” said Graber.
“Seasonal Affective Disorder causes people to be affected by the weather,” said Psychologist Dr. Cheryl Kaiser. It usually sets in over time when the days become longer or there’s no sunshine.
“If somebody is having a difficult time shaking off negative weather, and it lasts the whole winter then it’s a problem,” said Dr. Kaiser. The answer is the sun. It provides Vitamin D which helps protect bones in the body.
“It’s something about having that light that triggers good things in our bodies. It makes us feel physiologically and emotionally better,” said Dr. Kaiser.
“You have more energy when it’s a sunny day. You make yourself get out there and get going. Sunny days are much better,” said Gina Rice.
No matter how the weather turns out, it’s still up to you to have a good day. “Slow it down, organize your day, and you can get plenty of things accomplished,” said Andrea Royster.
“Pick activities inside like sitting at the fireplace or watching a movie will put you back in a good mood,” said Graber. Sunny, raining and snowing weather is out of our control. However we can control our emotions.
Doctors suggest taking vacations at different times. Instead of taking it during the summer, why not take it during the winter months? Choosing to go somewhere warm and plenty of sunlight is just what the doctor ordered.
Exercise is also a great way to keep your spirits up. It releases endorphins throughout your body that can help overcome weather gloominess.
©2011 WALB News. All rights reserved.
Here’s a link to their website as well: WALB News 10