BALTIMORE, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- U.S. psychiatrists say making an effort to get some sun may help lift spirits if feeling blah and blue this winter.
A team of psychiatrists from Sinai Hospital of Baltimore and Northwest Hospital suggest when the sun is out it is a good idea to work by a window. Also, on those rare sunny winter days, going outside and taking a brisk walk will reap the mood benefits of exercise as well as sunlight.
Making exercise a priority as well as taking a daily vitamin and staying well-hydrated may also help.
The psychiatrists say researchers have linked feelings of depression in winter to the lack of daylight and for some the winter blues are actually a medical problem called Seasonal Affective Disorder. An estimated 6 percent of Americans suffer from SAD and more than 14 percent get a milder form called Sybsyndromal Seasonal Affective Disorder.
The experts advise help is needed for those suffering from the symptoms of depression. These may include:
-- feeling sad, hopeless, helpless, slowed down and/or restless.
-- lacking energy and/or appetite.
-- problems falling -- or staying -- asleep.
-- weight changes.
-- difficulties concentrating or making decisions.
-- losing interest in people/activities.
-- thoughts of death or suicide.
