CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- If you’re feeling low, you’re not alone. Monday, Jan. 17 is considered “Blue Monday” or the most depressing day of the year. But we have some tips to boost your spirits.
Shorter days and not much sunlight can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The hallmarks of the disorder include oversleeping, overeating, and social withdrawl.
The National Institute of Mental Health points to research suggesting that is due to a lack of serotonin, usually controlled by sunlight or too much melatonin.
MedStar Health suggests you can reduce such depression by using a lightbox for a half hour a day or other light therapy that imitates sunshine.
The healthcare organization also encourages people to eat a balanced diet, get some physical exercise, and take Vitamin D supplements as ways to ward off the winter blues.
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