It might be a little early to start discussing seasonal depression. I know not everybody deals with it, but I do, and I am sure many others can relate.  

For those of you who can’t – seasonal depression is a type of depression that only occurs during certain seasons of the year, usually fall and winter. Many seem to link it with the gloomy or chilly weather that keeps us locked in the house or the lack of sunlight as the days grow shorter.  

When I began researching this and ways to possibly curb the depression before it begins, I also learned that seasonal depression is referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). I wonder if they planned for it to spell out S-A-D or if it just worked out that way. Kind of ironic.  

But according to Women’s Magazine there are many ways to stay on top of those winter blues. One of them includes, staying social. There are usually plenty of events going on during this time of the year – Fall Festivals, Halloween parties, Christmas parties, New Year parties – just pick one. Another is exercising (if I am being honest, I probably won’t do that one.)  

One that I came across and thought was pretty cool is light therapy. This could mean direct sunlight or artificial light. They suggested doing this first thing in the morning to reduce the brain’s production of melatonin, which you really only need at night. Light therapy could also include surrounding yourself with bright colors. You could wear them, decorate your house with them, etc.  

Making sure you are getting enough Vitamin D and limiting screen time was also on the list. 

I do not know if this is proven, but I have HEARD that people who put their Christmas tree up earlier in the season are overall happier people in general. Which I guess may also be a form of light therapy? One of my all-time favorite things to do is sit on a nice, comfy couch reading a book by the light of a bright Christmas tree. Do you agree or disagree? Is September too early?  

P.S. And don’t come for me, about it being too early to start talking about Christmas. This can also serve as your reminder to start shopping now. It will be here before you know it.  

P.S.S. ALSO, I am not one of those that skips over Halloween and Thanksgiving. Halloween is my favorite holiday after all. But I see no harm in setting up a Christmas tree beside a few pumpkins and skeletons if it helps to curb the seasonal depression or SAD, if you will. 

(Paige Gurgainers is a mother of three girls, publisher of Bienville Parish Journal and Claiborne Parish Journal and a digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal.)