Natural Remedies for Seasonal Depression 

Seasonal depression is a condition that typically affects people during the winter months when there is less sunlight. You can manage seasonal depression using treatments similar to clinical depression and other types of depression. However, there are also natural remedies you can use that are specifically beneficial for seasonal depression. 

Light Exposure 

Since seasonal depression is heavily influenced by lower exposure to sunlight, the most common treatment is light therapy. Even though there is less sunlight, you can still take advantage of what sunlight is available. You should try to spend 10-30 minutes in direct sun each day. If you are unable to get this much sun exposure, you can purchase lights that are made specifically for light therapy. These lights simulate sunlight and give you many of the same benefits of being out in the sun. 

Aromatherapy 

Many people use aromatherapy for a variety of reasons. When essential oils are placed in a diffuser, the scent can fill your space and you can breathe in the benefits. In regard to depression, some studies have found that citrus oils are very beneficial for helping your body achieve homeostatic balance. The scents of these oils, such as orange, lemon, or lime, simply make you feel brighter and happiers. You can also use essential oils to help calm and relax you. Aromatherapy is a natural way to ease your seasonal depression symptoms. You can use these oils to directly address your depression, or you can simply fill your room with scents that make you feel better. Often, smells are an underrated part of your environment, but they can have a major impact on the way you feel. 

Change In Diet 

One of the best ways to improve depression symptoms is to change the way you’re eating. What you put in your body affects how it functions both physically and mentally. You need to make sure you provide yourself with a balanced diet that offers you all the necessary vitamins and minerals. For seasonal depression, you should emphasize certain nutrients like vitamin D and omega-3s. Eating antioxidants, like berries, can also help your body and mind feel better and more refreshed. In addition to adding healthier foods, you should also limit certain foods like sugar or carbs. Of course, you shouldn’t completely cut foods out because denying yourself foods can actually negatively affect your mental health. Instead, reduce certain foods so you aren’t eating them every day. 

While there are many medications and other treatment options available, it’s helpful to try out natural remedies to treat your seasonal depression. As you try out these remedies, you may find options that can benefit you throughout the year. 

If you’re interested in other non-medication treatments for depression, click here to learn about TMS therapy.