I know that it’s still fall, but when November arrives and Daylight Savings Time kicks in, it starts to feel more like winter.

The days are shorter now, and it is dark a lot more – in the mornings and at night.

I know that we have all the holiday celebrations to look forward to, but this time of year can be hard for some people.

The shorter days and lack of sunlight can cause seasonal depression, and you don’t have to have ADHD to be affected by it.

 

As women, we often carry the burden for making the holidays special, so we take on extra work, sleep less, neglect our diet and exercise goals, and just pretty much stress ourselves out.

Because we do have ADHD, we are prone to not only seasonal depression, but depression in general. Remember, ADHD never occurs alone; it always brings a friend or two to the party.

If you find yourself prone to either seasonal depression or depression, there are some things that you can do that might help.

Here is a quick list:

• Start by talking to your doctor, especially if you think medication might help.
• Add a vitamin D supplement to your routine. The shorter days mean that we may not be getting enough from the sun, especially if you live in North America or are not outside a lot. Even regular use of sunscreen can lower your body’s ability to absorb vitamin D.
• If you don’t want to take an anti-depressant, consider St. Johns Wort. It is an herb that some people have found to be effective.
• Recognize times that are especially difficult for you and then work to minimize them or learn ways to deal with them. My family teases me because sometimes I start playing Christmas music before Halloween, but I do it because it makes me happy.
• Make an effort to get out more. This time of year when the weather might not be so nice, we tend to stay home more often. Try getting out of the house. Meet a friend for coffee, or volunteer an hour or so a week.
• Exercise. Not only is it good for your body, it’s also good for your ADHD brain and depression. Adding a friend will increase the feel good effectiveness of it.
• Be sure to get enough sleep, but beware of sleeping too much. Napping your day away can be a sign of depression.
• Lower expectations and your stress level. Scale back on what you do for the holidays. Consider something different, less stressful on you. Ask for help.
• Read inspirational and uplifting books. The same for movies; look for positive ones. Try to surround yourself with positive messages everywhere.
• Try a yoga practice. It can really relax you and make you feel better.
• Also try meditating. Find a guided meditation or a visual one. Here is one I like: