Russian doctors called November “the most depressive month” and advised Russians to take action to prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Doctors believe that that less sunlight during November leads to the brain making less melatonin, an important hormone responsible for well-being, good mood and healthy sleep. Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include apathy and decreased performance, anxiety and insomnia, difficulty concentrating and increased irritability. But there is a lot one can do prevent SAD.
One needs to take vitamin and mineral pills recommended by their doctor, try to spend more time outdoors, especially on sunny days, and use light therapy lamps that mimic the effects of sunlight indoors. Even short, 30-minute, daily light therapy sessions can help people “recharge with energy.” The choice of lightboxes, as well as their price range, is very wide. Just make sure the lamp is bright enough, and light therapy will work.