Many of us struggle in the winters or have friends or family that do. The following resources are for anyone who wants to learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), aka Seasonal Depression or Winter Blues. Talking to a doctor about depression is always the first step; the below resources are for use alongside professional help.
Important: If you are in crisis right now, call the SAMHSA’s National Helpline. This is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year service for people or family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
Not sure it’s SAD? I recommend starting with Dr. Rosenthal’s book Winter Blues. Then, listen to podcasts, lectures, and educate, educate, educate yourself about SAD. There ARE things to manage depression through the seasons.
If you have resources that have helped you, please share them in the comments below or email info@winteringwell.com so I can add them to the list!
The following resources have been a help to me. I hope they help you too.
Books
Winter Blues by Dr. Rosenthal. Dr. Rosethal was the first psychiatrist to describe and diagnose SAD. This book is the most researched and comprehensive book on SAD out there.
There is also a Workbook that goes along with Winter Blues that I highly recommend. Working through this book feels like seeing a personal counselor – it’s a tool for diagnosing and figuring out how to manage SAD for each person individually. This would be a great book to work through with a counselor too.
Listen & Watch
Seasonal Affective Disorder: More Than Just the Winter Blues
A comprehensive, scientific description of SAD from Michigan-based psychologist Thomas Kuhn. 1 hour lecture.
How to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder with Dr. Norman Rosenthal
An interview w/ Dr. Rosenthal, lead researcher on SAD. Good conversation around management strategies for those struggling or who have friends or family that struggle.
Seasonal Affective Disorder and the Business of Happiness
A video on Vitamin D pop up and light boxes. Interview with Professor Paul Frijters on light boxes and SAD in general.
Articles
Will Norway Ever Beat the Winter Blues?
How Scandinavia uses giant mirrors, light-therapy clinics, and even positive thinking to overcome seasonal depression.
Websites
Seasonal Affective Disorder: Mayo Clinic
Inspiring/Related Theme
Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May
A beautifully written memoir on how to (literally and figuratively) winter well.
The Pink Umbrella by Amelie Callot
A picture book, but not just for kids! Anyone with winter blues will relate to the main character and smile through the sweet ending. Rainy days are helped with proper attire, love, and support. This could be a beautiful way to open up a conversation about SAD with kids too.
Follow
These are accounts where I share resources and helpful tips I’m finding on the regular – follow for daily resources or tag to share yours.
Wintering Well on Instagram
Wintering Well on Tik Tok
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