The weather has been affecting people in the Treasure Valley in a lot of different ways. Less sunlight in the winter months can even affect the way you feel. Some might experience winter blues this time of year.
A licensed social worker at Saint Alphonsus says seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression and the symptoms are similar to that of Major Depressive Disorder.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is felt most often during the Fall and Winter months when there is less light. You might experience symptoms like lack of motivation, lethargy, and fatigue. You also might sleep more often than usual and have thoughts of suicide. There are some things that could help though.
"So a light therapy seems to be helpful thing for, it's a light box, for 80 percent of people. So, if people sit 60 and 90 minutes per day with this source of light, that can be helpful," said Melissa Young, LCSW, Saint Alphonsus.
Having someone to talk to, like a counselor or a friend can be helpful. Of course, eating healthy and exercise can also help as well.
