#575: Seasonal Sadness and What to Do About It

Podcast #575SEASONAL SADNESS AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT ITThe darkness of the winter season is upon us and if you have ever struggled with winter sadness or holiday anxiety then this episode is for you. I'm going to share 3 simple strategies that I use that have been game-changing, as well as some mental shifts in how you can think about the seasonal sadness and allow emotional space for your heart and soul to feel all of the feelings this season without being burdened or side-railed by them. Get the full show notes at www.trishblackwell.com/575In this episode of The Confidence Podcast, we're coaching on:* Seasonal Sadness, how to know if it's affecting you (and what to do about it)* Deepening your experience of joy in the holiday season * Being present and planning for the next season effectively, without overwhelmREVIEW OF THE WEEK:WHAT IS SEASONAL SADNESSSeasonal sadness, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, typically during the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight. It is characterized by symptoms similar to major depressive disorder, including low energy, irritability, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns, and feelings of hopelessness.The exact cause of seasonal affective disorder is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to changes in exposure to natural light. Reduced sunlight exposure during the fall and winter months may disrupt the body's internal clock (circadian rhythm) and affect the production of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and melatonin, which play a role in mood regulation and sleep.Conversely, some people may experience a milder form of seasonal affective disorder during the spring and summer months, often characterized by symptoms such as poor appetite, insomnia, and anxiety.Treatment for seasonal affective disorder often involves light therapy (phototherapy), where individuals are exposed to a bright light that mimics natural sunlight. Additionally, psychotherapy and medication may be recommended in more severe cases. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, it's essential to seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.WHY DAYLIGHT MATTERSIn summary, daylight influences our internal biological processes, including circadian rhythms, hormone production, and neurotransmitter activity, all of which play crucial roles in regulating mood, sleep, and overall well-being.Daylight has a significant impact on our happiness and well-being due to its influence on various physiological and psychological processes. Here are some key reasons:Regulation of Circadian Rhythms:* Exposure to natural light helps regulate our circadian rhythms, which are internal biological clocks that govern our sleep-wake cycle and other bodily functions.* Proper alignment of circadian rhythms with the natural light-dark cycle promotes better sleep quality and overall well-being.* Melatonin Production:* Daylight exposure suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep. Reduced melatonin levels during the day contribute to increased alertness and wakefulness.* Exposure to natural light in the morning helps set a healthy sleep-wake pattern by signaling to the body that it's time to be awake and alert.* Vitamin D Synthesis:* Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.* Adequate exposure to sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, and a deficiency in this vitamin has been linked to various health issues,