SEASONAL AFFECTIVENESS DISORDER: Michigan 1 of USA SADdest States

If this time of year gets to you, you're not alone. Several Michigan residents, whether they are aware of it or not, are battling the elements in our fine state that cause them to feel blue. I am one of these Michiganders.

Related: Holiday Blues? Michigan Ranks Low for Overall State Happiness

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that increases with the change in seasons, typically it shows up in the fall and winter when the amount of sunlight we get in Michigan TANKS. This lack of sunlight exposure chips away at your mood and drains your energy.

Tips on How to Deal With Seasonal Affectiveness Disorder in Michigan

Here are 5 ways you can get ahead of SAD in Michigan, according to MattressNextDay:

1. Get Some Light Therapy
   • This is a pretty affordable way to battle seasonal depression. Light therapy boxes are recommended by the MAYO Clinic for their ability to mimic sunlight. Turning one on while you're working for a couple of hours will go a long way to improve your energy.
2. Exercise
   • It seems like almost every ailment can be improved by getting more active, but in SAD's case, exercise produces endorphins which are your body's 'feel good' chemicals. Bonus if you get your blood pumping outdoors while the sun is out.
3. Eat Healthy
   • Let's face it, during the winter we like to reach for foods that are high in sugar and carbs, both of which can make you feel less than energetic. A better diet improves your mood and throwing in some Vitamin D supplements will help increase your body's 'feel good' properties.
4. Get Outside
   • It is so easy to hunker down during Michigan's winter and not emerge until spring. Dark mornings and nights are now spent commuting and leave you with little, or no time to soak up the sun. If you can't take short walking breaks at work, try and find a spot by a window.
5. Set a Routine
   • Each of the above sounds simple on its own, but the best way to combat SAD is to do all of them daily. Setting a new routine that you can stick to will help fight nasty winter depression.