I get the blues in the winter. Is this from lack of sun?

Question

I get depressed in the winter and am tired and un motivated at times and grouchy. Someone told me it was from lack of sunlight. In this case would it help if I went to the tanning bed? I have concerns about skin damage but it it weren't in excess, (once a week for five minutes) in the winter only would that be okay?

My husband says I always get crabbie in the winter. I do notice I am cherrier when it is sunny out and then I am like Eore when its cloudy.

Answer 1

It is beilved that the sun helps elevate levels of sertonin in the brain, which is beilved to control mood. I would see no reason not to do a tanning bed once a week, but talk to a profesionaal. Exercise can also help. good luck.

Answer 2

Yes I've suffered with depression for years and it does always seem to get a little worse in the winter time. I'v done the tanning bed thing and it helps a little but I would only do it once a week tops so that you don't have any skin damage. Also exercising helps release chemicals in your body that will help fight off the blues. If you think you can make it through OK with no help from a professional good for you! but if you do need a little bump in the right direction don't feel ashamed to go to your doctor and ask for help.

Answer 3

It is very possible that you suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. This is thought to be related to lack of sunshine, which affects the level of certain neurotransmitters. It is too late in the year to do much good, but the best known remedy is using a special light source that mimics some of the suns light stectrum. It is best to start using this light for about 1/2 hour a day BEFORE the gloomy season hits, and continue through the winter into spring. They are a few hundred bucks. You just sit in front of it and read or relax for a bit. Exercise also boosts endorphin levels, making you mood better.

Answer 4

Yes. It's SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. Tanning beds are dangerous. Don't use them. Get a full spectrum light that is sold specifically for this. It has recently been proven that you don't have to face the light to get the benefits of being in front of it. You just need to have some body parts in fron of it. I place mine on my floor in the kitchen and while I am at my kitchen sink in the morning I shine it on my bare legs and get the benefit of it. It helps a lot. You'd be amazed. It can still help you if you start it right now. So don't be put off by the answerer who said you have to start before the winter season.

Answer 5

I feel for you, because I have been like that for years. The minute the middle of December comes around, I feel lethargic. I don't feel like doing anything. I have tried the tanning beds and it has not worked for me. Neither did light therapy ! My doctor prescribed some Vitamin D for me last week. I hope that will work, otherwise, I will have to grin and bear it until spring.
But hey, The time will be changing the 2nd sunday in March, so it will be light out longer !
Good Luck.

Answer 6

We a;; get the blues, do you work out it will help, or take a day and pamper your self winter is hard , we must put on warm cloths gloves hat boots and warm up the car all to go out and freeze , It is from lack of sun but just by doing something different will help

Answer 7

I am the same way in the winter.I go crazy.I am a seasonal worker and have nothing to do in the winter.I love the outdoors when it's nice out.Spring will be here soon and I can plant my garden.Can't wait for those warm days.Try taking vitamin D.That is what we lack from the sunshine.Tanning beds are not that bad for your skin as long as you don't do it to much.

Answer 8

Lack of sunshine can cause depression. Make sure you get at least 10 minutes a day of sunshine. I don't recommend a tanning bed. They can cause cancer. At least sunshine is natural and you can wear sunscreen. Also take B vitamins and St John's Wart. Tanning bes are gross..

Answer 9

i know several people who get very "low" in the winter-especially February, after being stuck indoors for months. We always try to plan a vacation somewhere warmer (even if it is just a short lil break). Just so we have something to look forward to. It gets hard-i know. You would have to talk to a physician who could recommend someone else for you to talk to...I hope you find a solution! Good Luck!

Answer 10

It's called Seasonal Affective Disorder. My family is prone to it.

The tanning solution is the orginal treatment, but to get benifit from it, you need to do it at least three times a week! My cousin used that solution and she looked like a raisin. It's now been switched to Light Therapy. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/seasonal-affective-disorder/MH00023
http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0826/is_6_20/ai_n7069478

Other treatments include: Melatonin, Essential Fatty Acids, St. John's Wort, and other natural remedies. http://www.alternativementalhealth.com/articles/seasonal.htm