Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): 5 Ways to Train Your Brain Against SAD by 30Seconds Mom

Each year, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects three million Americans, according to the Mayo Clinic. With the holidays, there might be no worse time to become depressed. Dr. Ed Carlton, chiropractor. certified neurofeedback trainer and founder of the Carlton Neurofeedback Center, has tips for fighting SAD this year. There are a number of ways to treat it, from severe to mild:

• Take a pill – Antidepressants, or SSRIs, artificially increase serotonin levels in the blood, making you “feel good” while they are in your system.

• Talk therapy – Cognitive behavioral therapy sessions have been proven to help lessen the affects.

• Go outdoors two hours every morning – More effective if there is bright sunshine, but simply being outside seems to have a positive effect, even on cloudy days.

• Buy a “Box of Light” for indoor use – Specially designed bright lights can be purchased to use indoors. These lights are designed to mimic the effects of natural sunshine, and provide benefits if used 30-60 minutes daily.

• Neurofeedback training – This uses the brain’s natural ability to learn to retrain it to function in a more balanced manner, eliminating the depressive tendencies associated with SAD. The process is as easy as watching a movie, is free of side effects, and best of all, once done, doesn’t have to be repeated every winter season.

The information on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided through this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal health care provider.