What Do You Find Helpful to Combat Seasonal Depression (SAD)?

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It dawned on me today (no pun intended) that the sun doesn’t rise till almost 7:30am where I live and sets before 6:30pm. It kind of snuck up on me this year, but it explains why I’ve been feeling this simmering anxiousness for no apparent reason.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) seems to affect me more every year as I get older, and yet, I’m more aware than ever of the need for the inner Light that Jesus brings.

What do you find helps you not only get through the darker and colder months, but to thrive and be full of joy and hope, no matter the season?

I found this article and Bible verses helpful. Please share other resources or thoughts. I’d love to hear them! :folded_hands:

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I now live in Florida ( the sunshine state) so I’m less affected now.

But when I was up north, I’d start ti go a little nutty by February.

I put a “ broad spectrum” light in my office. And it seemed to help.

I called it my “ happy light “

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I feel this every fall/winter too. A few things that actually help me:

  • Morning light: I sit by a sunny window right after waking, or use a cheap daylight lamp for 20–30 minutes. It sets my mood better than coffee.

  • Get outside once a day: even a 10–15 min walk when it’s brightest.

  • Keep a loose routine: same wake/bedtime, shower + real clothes, one small “win” before noon.

  • Worship + Scripture on repeat: short playlist, and I pray Psalm 42:11 or Philippians 4:6–7 when the “gray” creeps in.

  • Stay connected: say yes to one simple plan a week (coffee after church, call a friend). Isolation makes it heavier.

  • Basics: hydrate, protein at breakfast, limit late-night scrolling.

  • Vitamin D: I ask my doctor to check levels; fixing that once made a big difference.

If it starts feeling bigger than you can carry (sleep/appetite way off, hopelessness), please talk to a counselor or your pastor—no shame in that. What’s helped you most in past winters?

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These are all so helpful and practical! Thank you!

I have found getting outside helpful as well. I want to make sure to keep prioritizing that this fall/winter.

I am also thinking about keeping a gratitude journal. Just something simple to focus on the positive and set my focus for the day.

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My parents recently bought a condo in Florida. Maybe that’s my solution—stay with them for the winter. :joy:

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That actually sounds like a great plan! Escaping the cold and spending winter in Florida with your parents could be a nice change of pace—and a good way to save on rent or heating costs too. Plus, who can say no to a bit of sunshine?

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I have been fighting with depression all my life. Seasonal depression seems to get worse the older I get. I’ve made a decision to escape the cold and dark. I’ve made a goal to move to a warm, sunnier climate. I plan to sell my residence and buy a beautiful home with a view in New Mexico. I have to be closer to retirement as I prefer to not have to work after moving. Been aggressively investing in stocks to provide money to live on before collecting SS. Warm dry sunshine, no hurricanes, earthquakes or tornadoes. This goal keeps me motivated and I go on line and shop for a house regularly. Even if I’m not ready to move yet It helps to see what I will enjoy soon enough.

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That sounds amazing! I grew up in the far north of the U.S. and while it’s beautiful, it is sure tough in the winter months. I live in the Mid-Atlantic now, but while I love the change of seasons, I miss the sun and warmth in winter. I’m hoping to make a couple winter trips to get a change of scenery!

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