SAD
Sep 3rd, 2008 by learningumbrella
I am SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder that is. Every year I get depressed right around this time, which also happens to be when my birthday falls. I don’t know if it would be different if I lived somewhere else, but around here it starts to get grey again. We have a lot of grey weather, with light rain and general coolness. I love the Northwest, but it’s hard to make the adjustment from the short summer season to the fall.
I’ve been pretty depressed the last few weeks, and it’s so hard to sort the genuine from the SAD. How much am I genuinely frustrated with the housework and the house and how much is it just that it feels dark and gloomy as the sun goes away? My house is pretty dark, with small windows and not enough overhead lighting. Every year I feel unhappy with how dark the house is, but I haven’t found any good solutions to the problem.
This weekend, DH presented me with a big bouquet of sunflowers, because I needed a bit of sunshine around here. They are very nice to look at, and it was very sweet. What else can I do to cope with the SAD? I’m thinking I need to get some knitting on some needles, and do some more sewing projects. Nesting, and indoor activities, usually help. Also, and I know this is irritating to many, I tend to jump on the holidays pretty hard to help me get through this time. So, I’m going to do a bit of Harvest decorating. The kids want a big scarecrow, so that’s going on the list.
I’m also just not going to let the fall and winter slow me down on getting outdoors. That’s what raingear is for, right? I’ve decided to buy an electric bike, as that is the solution to my commute that I’ve finally decided on. And I put one Saturday a month down for a hike on my calendar, and emailed that list of dates to all my family and friends that might join me on those hikes. I really wish DH could still hike, but I have to find other hiking partners since his knee just won’t hold up to it anymore. I’m sure someone will want to hike with me.
But one thing I must avoid is shopping to try and make myself feel better. Well, I already did that. But I will avoid it from now on. It’s not the best remedy, and it’s too expensive and shallow. So, other than the shoes I just ordered (I couldn’t resist these Fluevogs), I will hold strong against retail therapy.
Sounds like you’ve identified some good solutions — knit, hike, decorate/be festive. Hope you are feeling better soon.
I get depressed this time of year because I miss fall
I know the Northwest can be hard that way. I still miss it though. Better trade places. The sun never goes away here.
Your plan sounds like an terrific one. I hope you’re feeling a bit happier soon.
I get SAD every year but this is my first PNW Fall. I’m a bit worried because we didn’t even have a Summer.
I like your idea of getting outside everyday regardless of the weather. I try and run outside unless the weather is intolerable.
The house mess gets me down as well. I’m sure it will get better as you reap the benefit of not being home all day with a half a dozen little children.
I’ve had very little energy and have been irritable lately, which may be pregnancy related, or may be seasonal, or may just be me staying up too late watching The Wire. I’ve had no patience or energy for Sylv’s constant preschooler demands, which is feeding the bad feelings.
I think a hike sounds like a splendid solution, and I will do my absolute best to get a few Saturdays off to go get some fresh air and exercise with you. We could even take the kids some weekday that you’re not working.