Suzanne Potter, producer/reporter, California News Service, a bureau of Public News Service.
Sunny California days in the winter are not unusual. They can lift your spirits, but that is not true for some. Studies show that about 40% of Americans report feeling the wintertime blues now and then. While about 2% to 3% experience a more severe seasonal affective disorder. However, experts have some tips to combat the symptoms.
Some sufferers may feel depressed or anxious and may have trouble with weight gain, sleep, concentration, or memory.
Dr. Michael McCarthy, PhD. is a psychiatry professor and a researcher at the U.C. San Diego Center for Circadian Biology. He says people living in sunny California are not immune.
“A lot of people think that seasonal affective disorder is related primarily to temperature, but that’s not actually true,” said McCarthy. “It’s mostly related to the time of sunlight that people are experiencing. And so the days do get significantly shorter between winter and summer.”
In Southern California, during winter, the sun shines 4 hours less than it does during summer. People in Northern California get 5.5 fewer hours of daylight this time of year.
A recent study found that during winter, 41% of Americans report that they sleep more, 28% feel fatigued, and 27% experience depression.
Experts recommend patients get a professional evaluation and lean on their friends and loved ones for social support. Dr. Rhonda Randall is the chief medical officer for United Healthcare, both employer and individual.
“Getting exposure from true sunlight really can be very helpful,” Randall said. “Exercise can help with this as well. And then if you’re not able to get exposure to the sun, light therapy, bright lights in your home can make a difference.”
Randall said some patients find the Calm app helpful.
She also advised people to check to see if they are eligible for an employee assistance program, which may cover telehealth visits with a mental health provider.
