Are You SAD Too?
Wellness Wednesday – The Wholistic Fly Fisher ©
These winter months are a real bear, even if I am only at the 32nd. latitude on this spinning ball.
And the ball does spin, doesn’t it? That’s what The Wholistic Fly Fisher is all about when you get right down to it … time, it’s about time. I’ll leave it at that while I contemplate snow shovels this morning, in preparation for the “snow event” heading to North Central Texas overnight.
Right now, it’s work around here from dark to dark, but I do take heart in the fact the days, while getting colder are also now getting longer … once again. I take great heart and hope in the longer days in this year ahead, as I have done every single year past. But, sometimes I get the bear … and sometimes the bear gets me.
SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder is a real thing, and something I deal with during long stretches of lost sunlight. It wasn’t always like that, but I can’t remember when that was anymore. I’ve had it for a long time now. And it doesn’t always happen, so I guess some would write it off, “It’s all in your head!” Basically, for me, I guess it really is all in my head. But with a little change in my eyewear, I have found over the years that I can thwart some of SAD’s affect on me by the simple wearing of yellow tinted safety glasses. It also helps to wear these in low light fly fishing, and daylight dark driving (rain and heavy overcast). You can get these safety glasses just about anywhere, but Home Depot is my go-to source for getting them. AND I would recommend getting some before January 21st. – with the new taxes kicking in, on China made products coming into the USA.
How SAD Is Described (by CHATgpt)
SAD is a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, most commonly during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight. However, it can also affect people during periods of prolonged overcast weather, regardless of the season.
Key Features of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):
Symptoms of Depression: Persistent sadness or low mood Loss of interest or pleasure in activities Fatigue and low energy Difficulty concentrating Changes in appetite (often craving carbohydrates) Changes in sleep patterns (often sleeping more) Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt Social withdrawal
Causes: Reduced sunlight: A lack of sunlight can disrupt your biological clock (circadian rhythm), which regulates sleep-wake cycles and mood. Serotonin levels: Reduced sunlight can lower serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation. Melatonin disruption: Overcast weather and darker days may lead to overproduction of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep, making you feel lethargic.
Risk Factors: Living far from the equator, where seasonal changes are more pronounced A family history of depression or SAD Being female (women are more commonly affected) Being younger (SAD is more common in younger adults)
Diagnosis: SAD is typically diagnosed when depressive symptoms consistently occur during a specific season for at least two consecutive years and improve during other parts of the year.
Treatments for SAD: Light Therapy (Phototherapy): Sitting near a lightbox that emits bright light (10,000 lux) mimicking natural sunlight can help alleviate symptoms. It’s most effective when used in the morning. Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in managing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with SAD. Medication: Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, fluoxetine), may help regulate serotonin levels. Lifestyle Changes: Increase exposure to natural light: Spend time outdoors during daylight hours, even on cloudy days. Regular exercise: Physical activity can improve mood and energy levels. Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet can help manage cravings and energy fluctuations. Vitamin D: Some studies suggest that low levels of vitamin D, often due to reduced sunlight exposure, may contribute to SAD. Supplementing with vitamin D could help. If you or someone you know is struggling with SAD, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to explore appropriate treatments and strategies. – THIS Article Generated by ChatGPT-
Be sure to also see my SHORT snapshot of how I deal with a SAD fly fisher, when the sun goes away, by using yellow shade glasses.
Category: Body-Mind-Soul, Fly Fisher Health and Wellness, Wholistic Fly Fisher
