Latest news with #SeasonalAffectiveDisorder
Telegraph
28-05-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
Tend to feel sad in winter? It might be in your genes
Feeling sad in the winter could be caused by your genetics, a study suggests. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects around one in 20 people in the UK and leads to low mood and other mental health issues in the colder, darker months. Now researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a gene – SLC20A2 – which makes some people even more susceptible to the condition. The study of more than 3,000 shift workers, who wore Fitbit-style activity trackers, revealed that how well they coped with changes to their daily schedule across the seasons showed correlation with differences in their genes. Dr Ruby Kim, assistant professor of mathematics at the University of Michigan and study author, said: 'Humans really are seasonal, even though we might not want to admit that in our modern context. 'Day length, the amount of sunlight we get, it really influences our physiology. 'The study shows that our biologically hardwired seasonal timing affects how we adjust to changes in our daily schedules.' The finding that circadian rhythm was linked to seasonal mood adds credence to the belief that seasonal depression is, to some extent, hardwired into our DNA. 'For some people they might be able to adapt better, but for other people it could be a whole lot worse,' said Prof Daniel Forger, director of the Michigan Center for Applied and Interdisciplinary Mathematics. The SLC20A2 gene has been seen in animal studies to be linked to seasonality, and the team is now preparing further investigations into how this gene impacts humans. 'We found significant differences in daily steps, time awake, and heart rate-sleep misalignment throughout the year across different genotypes, grouped by polymorphisms [differing characteristics] of the SLC20A2 gene,' the scientists write in their study. 'We see much larger differences in heart rate-sleep misalignment between the genotype groups in the winter than in the summer. 'Based on these findings, we hypothesise that SLC20A2 influences photoperiodic encoding [reaction to day length] in humans.' The scientists think it is possible this gene 'may be involved in seasonal timing in humans' and could dictate if a person struggles with night shifts or can manage them well. 'We do not think that SLC20A2 alone can explain differences in seasonal behaviours and shift work adaptation, but it may contribute as one of many genetic factors influencing inter-individual variability,' the authors write. Prof Forger added: 'Brain physiology has been at work for millions of years trying to track dusk and dawn. 'Then industrialisation comes along in the blink of evolution's eye and, right now, we're still racing to catch up.'
Buzz Feed
01-05-2025
- General
- Buzz Feed
"It's Giving Small-Plate, Fusion Wine Bar" At A Tiny Fraction Of The Cost — Our 15 Favorite Recipes To Make Over The Past Month
We left the 'too tired to cook' energy back in March and cooked up an absolute storm this April. Maybe it's the Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) finally wearing off, or the fact that spring produce is actually starting to taste like something — either way, the motivation to cook came back with a vengeance. From cozy pastas to sushi bakes, these were the top recipes on our Tasty app this month. And trust me: they're worth adding to your rotation. 1. Korean Banchan Potatoes Tasty Crispy potatoes without turning on the oven (or the air fryer)? YAS. If you never considered tossing potatoes in a soy glaze before, baby, turn on your growth mindset and give it a try. 2. Paprika Chicken & Rice Bake Tasty 3. Lemon Posset Tasty I might not be 100,000% sure what "posset" means, but I am 1,000,000,000% sure I could eat at least 3 of these 4-ingredient custardy desserts. 4. Sushi Bake Tostadas Tasty 5. Classic Carrot Cake Tasty We put pineapple and raisins in ours. People love it, no biggie. If you have a thing against raisins, just leave 'em out. It's still a great cake and perfect for spring. 7. Chicken Caesar Salad Cones Tasty 8. Tasty 9. Gochujang Carbonara Tasty So, yeah, that's the sexiest pile of noodles I've ever seen. And I used to live in Italy. 10. One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken Tasty Our one-pan chicken thighs take less than 45 minutes start to finish — faster than ordering takeout most of the time. 11. Dubai Chocolate Baklava Tasty 12. Strawberry Sago 13. 14. Avocado Hashbrown Toast Tasty Technically, the chili oil is optional in this recipe (which happens to be gluten-free). But it's optional in the same way teachers say attendance is optional... pssst... It's not really optional. 15. Harissa Shrimp Quesadillas Tasty I usually save my pre-shredded cheese and tortillas for post-bar, late-night snacking, but some of you clearly had better plans this month. This veggie-packed, harissa shrimp quesadilla was a major hit. Help decide what's most popular next month by downloading the free Tasty app. You'll have access to thousands of recipes fit for your week ahead and be able to see what other Tasty users are cooking up in real-time — no subscription required.
Black America Web
30-04-2025
- Health
- Black America Web
Sun's Out, Still Down? Understanding Seasonal Depression In Spring And Summer
Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE Source: Inside Creative House / Getty It's finally feeling like spring is in the air! The weather is warming up, the pollen invasion is winding down, and summer is just around the corner. Time to shake off those winter blues, touch some grass, and engage in some much needed summer fun. But what if your mood is still feeling dark and cold despite the sunny weather? Or maybe even because of it? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) typically impacts people during the winter months. However, studies show that seasonal depression isn't limited to just one time of the year. While it's less common, summertime seasonal depression is very real and thankfully, there are effective ways to ward off summertime SAD and look forward to brighter days ahead. RELATED: Here's How Social Connection Helps Combat Depression Source: Jacob Wackerhausen / Getty SAD affects about four to six percent of the population who typically experience an increase in depressive symptoms during the winter months, when days are shorter and colder and people are more isolated. However, about 10 percent of those with SAD experience their symptoms in the summer months. Researchers are still trying to definitively determine what causes SAD but many believe extreme weather to be one of the culprits. Winter weather limits the body's access to Vitamin D from sunlight which can cause a dip in serotonin levels leading to an unhappy mood. However, the excessive heat of the spring and summer months can be equally unbearable and depressing as the winter cold. Trying to beat the heat by staying indoors and remaining isolated can lead to depressive episodes. Symptoms of summer depression are consistent with typical SAD symptoms and include loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, changes in weight, depression and anxiety. Source: Drazen Zigic / Getty While for many people, summertime comes with fun in the sun, the warm days can also bring with them new stresses and triggers. Maintaining a routine is important for maintaining good mental health but the spring and summer months often come with multiple changes in personal schedules. Planned summer travel plus prolonged breaks from school for students or parents with children can disrupt sleep, meal times, and other self care habits which can lead to depression. Summer weather also puts body image issues on full display. Studies show that Black women experience higher rates of body dysmorphic disorders (BDD) and as temperatures rise, clothing becomes more revealing and insecurities can be on exposed. Feelings of embarrassment, inadequacy, or over exposure can cause anxiety, body dysmorphia, or isolation from outdoor social activities. Speaking of socializing, the spring and summer months are plentiful/abounding/have no shortage of outdoor activities to get involved in. But that can also create a sense of pressure in some people (or FOMO) to say yes to every plan, draining their bank accounts and their mental battery. If everyone else is having a good time having fun in the sun, why can't you? Experiencing SAD in the spring and summer months can lead to feelings of shame and guilt that only exacerbate depressive symptoms. There is help available for people who struggle with seasonal depression at any time of the year. If you're experiencing what you think may be depression symptoms, consult a physician or therapist right away. You can also preemptively combat summertime SAD by planning ahead for the warmer months. Eating a healthy diet to maintain balanced mood and energy levels, getting enough sleep, and staying as active as possible through exercise and socializing can also help you feel better. A doctor might also describe medication to help offset feelings of depression and anxiety. Most of all, don't get down on yourself if you're not feeling up to fun in the sun this spring and summertime. Everyone is different and enjoys different things. The most important thing you can do any time of year is to take care of yourself in the unique ways that you need. DON'T MISS… Prayer Garden: Why You Need One and How to Create It Let the Sunshine In: Surprising Health Benefits of Sunlight 7 Wellness Spas to Add to Your Bucket List Take the Plunge: Surprising Benefits of Cold Therapy for Your Body, Mind, and Skin SEE ALSO Sun's Out, Still Down? Understanding Seasonal Depression In Spring And Summer was originally published on
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
I moved from Denver to Portland, Oregon, alone and broke. I struggled for years to adjust and make it feel like home.
I moved to Portland, Oregon, from the west edge of Denver for mostly practical reasons. My rent was lower, but I missed my friends and struggled to adjust to the wet weather. I realized I had to put in years of work to feel at home in the Pacific Northwest. In 2017, when I was 66 years old, I moved to Portland, Oregon, after 40 years in Colorado. My stream of income had ended abruptly, I was having issues with my landlord, and I was tired of almost nonstop snow and sunshine. Plus, my brother and his wife offered me a deal I couldn't refuse: low rent in an apartment building they owned in Portland. They promised to update the unit and give me a lifelong lease. The move made sense for me financially and practically, but it wasn't easy emotionally. It took a lot of effort, eight years, and multiple trips back to Denver to convince me I'd stay in Portland for the long haul. I physically and emotionally struggled to adjust after the move. Even my curly hair, manageable in Colorado, was out of control in the Portland humidity. It didn't know how to adjust. For the first few years, I felt depressed by the city's cloudy, cold, and wet winter weather. I felt like I could never get warm. Although I thought I'd be prepared for less sunshine, I ended up buying a Seasonal Affective Disorder lamp, purchasing "mood" supplements, and taking Vitamin D ("the sunshine vitamin") daily to cope with the season. I also underestimated how difficult it would be to start over in a new community without roots, especially since the only friends I had nearby was my brother. Eventually, I began pushing myself to connect with my surroundings instead of just surviving in them. I started a local chapter of the national writers' organization I belonged to. I took a part-time job so I could meet people, attended networking gatherings, and met my neighbors on daily walks. I also began discovering new favorite spots, like Portland's wine country about 30 minutes away. I drove there often, which helped me missed my Colorado mountain views a little bit less. Plus, I found a curly-hair specialist and began making appointments. Since I moved, I've made several trips back to Colorado, and each seems to reaffirm my decision to leave. When I visit Denver, my skin is no longer used to the dry weather. Big-box stores have replaced many of my favorite small shops and old friends and sisters who were once my neighbors have scattered geographically. The last time I returned from Denver was in June. I still remember the refreshing feeling of leaving its 90-degree weather and walking out of the Portland airport to the welcoming chill of 60 degrees. On my way home, I picked up groceries from the local market, where I now know people by name. I visited my naturopath, who has become my confidante in the eight years I've been here, and made plans to meet up with a now-good friend over lunch. What I had missed about Denver I have now found here — I needed only to see it. My social circles and friendships have been going strong. The city's winter weather no longer depresses me and I finally have money in the bank and feel financially secure. When I first moved to Portland, my therapist, who specializes in relocations, told me it would take eight years to feel at home here. She was right. Now, instead of pining for the past, I see what is before and what is ahead. I'm here to stay. Read the original article on Business Insider
Yahoo
27-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Light therapy lamps to combat the wintertime blues
Fox News and its syndication partners may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom. The winter and its lack of sunshine can trigger what's known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. This seasonal slump is more than just a fleeting funk for some people. Roughly ten million Americans suffer from seasonal depressive disorder, according to the American Psychiatry Association. The remedy you may not have thought of? Light therapy lamps. The challenge of getting outside when it's cold and dark can compound these feelings and a daily dose of sunshine via a light therapy lamp might be just what the doctor ordered. Light therapy lamps have emerged as a practical solution to combat the lack of natural sunlight. These lamps simulate sunlight, helping to regulate your body's internal clock and boosting mood and energy levels, even regulating sleep and appetite. Whether you prioritize portability, design or functionality, one of these lamps can help keep your spirits high until spring returns. Here are ten options to consider if you're exploring self-care in the form of light therapy. The Verilux HappyLight Luxe is popular for those seeking a high-quality, portable light therapy lamp. It offers customizable brightness settings up to 10,000 lux and a compact design, making it perfect for desks or nightstands. The lamp's UV-free light ensures safe usage and mimics natural daylight, helping users feel energized and focused. If you're really craving that sunshine on the go, the brand makes a mini version you can stash in your purse. Known for its sleek, modern design, Circadian Optics lamps provide 10,000 lux of UV-free light in a compact, foldable structure. Their adjustable light settings allow users to tailor their therapy to their preferences and the minimalistic aesthetic fits well in any environment. If you want one that also serves as home decor, check out this lattice style from Circadian Optics. These 24 Self-care Products To Get You Through This Winter The Carex Day-Light Classic Plus is designed for individuals who need a robust and effective light therapy lamp. Its larger screen provides a broad light field, delivering 10,000 lux of glare-free brightness. The adjustable height and angle ensure maximum comfort during therapy sessions. If this one's above your budget, Amazon offers a similar lamp for almost $50 less. Read On The Fox News App Whichever you choose, if you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today. With a large, bright light screen and customizable timer settings, the Aura lamp is an affordable option for comprehensive light therapy. It emits 10,000 lux of UV-free light and includes adjustable brightness levels, making it ideal for morning routines or workspaces. Aura also offers this nifty version, with an LED time display and alarm clock built in, so you can always wake up on the right side of the bed. Amp Up Your Self-care Routine With These Celebrity-endorsed Wellness Items From Walmart More than just a light therapy lamp, the Philips SmartSleep combines wake-up light and therapy features. It simulates natural sunrise and sunset patterns, helping regulate your sleep-wake cycle. The lamp also offers customizable light intensities and soundscapes for a holistic approach to winter wellness. If that's above your budget, Amazon offers this alternative for half the price. The Boxelite lamp provides powerful, 10,000 lux light therapy worthy of its higher price tag in a sleek minimalist design that won't take up a lot of space on your desk, vanity or dresser. Its large light-emitting surface and UV-free light make it an effective and safe option for combating SAD symptoms. The sturdy construction and adjustable angle add to its appeal. Walmart also has this model for slightly less. 10 Amazon Beauty And Wellness Products To Help Bring Out Your Best Designed by the creators of the original wake-up light, the Lumie Vitamin L light is a slim and lightweight option. Its 10,000 lux brightness and compact design make it easy to use at home or on the go. The frosted lens diffuses light evenly, ensuring a comfortable experience. Buy it from the brand directly and save nearly $20. Original price: $79.99 Like many others, the Beurer four-in-one offers 10,000 lux of evenly distributed, UV-free light – but this time in a simple, circular design and with tons of other bells and whistles. It's compact enough to fit into small spaces and has an alarm clock, Bluetooth with four sleep melodies and sunset fading settings. You can even control it from your smartphone. You can also consider this Better Homes and Gardens version available at Walmart. What could be considered the Bentley of light box therapy, the NorthStar 10,000 is a professional-grade light therapy lamp for those needing a more intense therapy experience. The lamp's large screen and durable construction are ideal for long-term use. Another option is the brand's mini model – still powerful, but in a smaller package. For more deals, visit Since users realized light therapy also has many other benefits, including physical ones, a new category of wearable light therapy has emerged, like this DNA Vibe Jazz Band device. It uses infrared light and is said to reduce stiffness, inflammation and pain while accelerating recovery from injury. The flexible construction is computer-optimized to fit every body part, including knees, neck, back, shoulders, elbows, ankles, hands, feet and more. If you still want the mental benefits of light therapy in a wearable device, check out these blue light glasses with a travel article source: Light therapy lamps to combat the wintertime blues
