How Minnesotans Can Fight SAD During Dark Winter Months

In the winter months, especially in Minnesota, the days are shorter, and even during the daylight hours, many times the sun is behind clouds. This can lead people to have something called SAD, or seasonal affective disorder.

Mayo Clinic defines SAD as "a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons," and it typically starts in the fall and continues into the winter months.

Millions of people are affected by SAD, and according to Boston University, women are more likely to be affected than men.

So what do we do if we have SAD? When you're depressed, it can be hard to feel like you can do anything, but there are things you can do to help with the SAD symptoms and maybe even prevent them.

ALSO READ: The Biggest Things that Stress Out Minnesotans

How to Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

I found five tips from experts on how we Minnesotans can fight SAD.

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1. Eat antioxidant-rich foods

Foods like dark chocolate, blueberries, spinach, and salmon are all antioxidant-rich.

2. Take a vitamin D supplement

In the winter, especially here in Minnesota, we can easily not get enough vitamin D, so taking a vitamin D supplement, even if it's just in the winter months, can be helpful.

3. Try a sun lamp

There are sun lamps on the market that are meant to simulate sunlight. If you sit by one, The Independent writes, "it’s believed that the light can cause a chemical in the brain that lifts your spirits and fights fatigue."

4. Socialize

I know too many people who coop themselves up at home during the winter, and that's the last thing you want to do, especially if you're prone to SAD. Get out and go see your friends and family.

5. Exercise (ideally outside)

Yes, even though it's cold, getting outdoors is still really good for you. And exercising in general is always great for your brain.

I've also got a bonus tip for you from yours truly: Go visit Sargent's on 2nd in Rochester! You ca grab a coffee at Cafe Aqui and wander the greenhouse filled with plants and, even better, humidity for our poor dry skin.