Seasonal Affective Disorder (or, how to turn that frown upside down)

We all know about Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, cabin fever, or winter blues. Symptoms include sadness, fatigue, oversleeping, irritability, and overeating, especially of carbs. Many of us chalk it up to being in a funk and needing a little warm weather, and just suck it up until the golden sun starts shining more hours of the day.

There are things you can do to alleviate some of those symptoms though - although of course if they become severe enough, a doctor should be consulted for appropriate treatment. Sometimes, anti-depressants or light therapy may be needed and can be dangerous (or just inaccessible) without a doctor.

So what can you do to help make the next few months a little more bearable if you're not in full-on depression but need to snap out of it? Here are some tips on handling the winter blues and putting on a happyish attitude:

• Open up the blinds - Just opening up your curtains and blinds and letting a little sunlight in can do wonders for your attitude.
• Go outside, even if it's cold - Going outside for a brief walk, even when it's cold, is another great way to alleviate the symptoms of SAD. Especially if you don't have many windows in your home, just a walk around the block will perk you up a bit.
• Use full spectrum light bulbs - Full spectrum bulbs simulate natural light and will help lighten the symptoms of SAD.
• Exercise - Get on the treadmill or break out your dusty pilates video. Getting some physical action increases endorphins and helps you feel better, no matter the weather. Also, by working off some of the carbs you've been craving, you'll kill two birds with one stone.
• Remember your vitamins - Taking a good multi-vitamin and B-complex supplements will also help keep you healthy and happy during the dark winter months.

Anyone old enough to remember the Northern Exposure episode where Walt got addicted to a light hat that he was prescribed for his SAD symptoms will wonder where that is on the list. You can buy them, but it's recommended that a doctor supervise this treatment, as too much light can be harmful.

Take care of your body and soak up the sun - just a few more months!