How You Can Overcome the Winter Blues

In the United States, one in three adults say that winter weather has a negative impact on their mood at work; one in four saying January is their most unhappy month. In extreme cases, individuals may be suffering from a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.

While the underlying causes of SAD are yet unknown to doctors, the effects and symptoms are well documented. One in five American adults is diagnosed with seasonal depression and around two million children are also affected by symptoms of SAD. So what is it about winter that makes us so sad (no pun intended)? From our body’s natural reaction to environmental light, to melatonin levels, and even simply how long we stare at a computer screen all day, it’s clear to doctors and researches that there are a lot of moving parts when it comes to SAD, which makes treatments a bit tricky. Luckily, we have science to back us up.

Whether it’s symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder or a mild case of cabin fever, no one should have to be miserable simply because the days are shorter. Take a look at this infographic for more on managing symptoms of SAD, formal and informal treatments, and why more and more people are looking towards technology to cure those enduring winter blues.