4
ISSUE NUMBER 1 / January 2017
December brought chilly temperatures our way. Chilly nights compiled with extended darkness often leads to feeling tired, easily irritated, oversleeping, and weight gain. All of these can be symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD most often effects young women who live far from the equator the most according to Mayo Clinic.
Living in the Midwest puts chronic pain patients at even more of a greater risk. How can we help our patients avoid letting SAD become a problem as winter continues? Offer these suggestions:
1. Get outside.
Getting outside, even if for a few moments, allows for your body to get sunshine which can greatly help reduce the chemical imbalance seen in SAD patients.
2. Stay active.
By staying active levels of serotonin and endorphins can increase helping fight off the gloomy feeling.
3. Eat better.
High carb foods not only add weight, but keep you sluggish. Eat foods with high levels of the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is converted into serotonin.
4. Brighten you living quarters.
Open up the blinds and let natural light in. Bring out bright, colorful blankets and decoration. Bright colors and natural lights help stimulate happier moods.
5. Seek medical attention.
Know the symptoms. If they are getting worse seek medical attention to discuss treatment and symptoms.
Winter months often wreak havoc on chronic pain patients. Trying to stay active is often hard work. Here are some ideas how to stay active indoors.
1. Get walking.
Whether you have to lap the house or take a walk at the mall it is important to keep your muscles moving to stay strong.
2. Find a swim class.
Swimming is a low impact on the joints and can help increase the range of motion.
3. Scrub the tub.
Doing housework is a great way for a workout while getting all the spring cleaning done before the spring.
4. Join a group.
Social interaction may help reduce the chance of depression while keeping the mind sharp.
As healthcare professionals, we have the ability to help suggest ideas but one other thing we may be able to do is help find the resources to keep our patients moving and enjoying the winter.
.