It is that time of year again, when the sun goes down early (often, before we even leave work!) Many of us suffer from some form of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), experiencing bouts of stress, anxiety, and depression frequently during the winter months. If you find your spirits sinking with the change of season from summer to autumn, it is important to take extra care of your health. Here are our top ten favorite tips for fighting the seasonal blues:

1. Do your best to get a little bit of sunlight every day, even if you are in an office. Put on a coat, take a coffee break and go outside for just ten minutes. No excuses.

2. Fight the urge to hibernate. Even when it is cold and stormy, try to go out and about as much as possible. Staying cooped up might feel cozy for a little while, but eventually it gets depressing.

3. Consider light therapy sessions. Several companies make excellent “Happy Lights,” and just 20 minutes a day of light therapy can make a huge different in mood.

4. Fight the urge to indulge in simple carbohydrates and sugar to feel better. Instead, mix complex carbs with sufficient protein, and when you do have dessert, eat small portions.

5. Read a good book. Reading for just ten minutes has been shown to reduce stress levels. Even better: enjoy a comforting cup of herbal tea along with it.

6. Consider supplementing with Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, and insufficient Vitamin D levels is often linked with Seasonal Affective Disorder. Talk to your doctor regarding dosage, or even consider have your Vitamin D levels checked.

7. Even when it gets dark early, remember that it won’t last forever! Imagine that in just a few months, it will start to stay light later and later. Visualize the springtime.

8. Do not neglect exercise! It is one of the safest and most effective ways to boost much-needed serotonin levels.

9. Make sure to socialize with friends as often as possible. Have people over to your place and accept invitations to other’s places. Being with people is particularly important during the fall and winter, especially for those prone to SAD.

10. If possible, plan a weekend trip to a sunny place. Looking forward to a few days of sun can help get you through the darker months.

Do you have any other strategies or tips for fighting the seasonal blues? Please share!