How to Beat the Autumn Blues

Published on 2013/11/02 | Source

Many people find it difficult to concentrate and feel lonelier or moodier in the fall, a phenomenon known as seasonal affective disorder.

A decreasing amount of sunlight and falling temperatures are linked to imbalances in secretion of hormones and other chemicals, which lead to changes in biorhythm and can result in depression.

To counter the syndrome, it is important to get a good night's sleep. Insomniacs are twice as likely to suffer from depression than those who sleep soundly. Basking in the available sunshine is also a good idea as more serotonin gets released.

A 20- to 30-minutes of walk or cycle during the day can also help alleviate the blues.

Eating food rich in vitamin D such as milk, mackerel or mushrooms can also be effective as vitamin D boosts serotonin.