FEND OFF THE WINTER BLUES!

Keep your mindset sunny with these preventative measures

CONSIDER VITAMIN D

“Vitamin D is found in certain foods, but it’s also made by your body when exposed to sunlight, which typically happens less during winter,” says psychologist Clare Mann. A 2016 study published in The American Journal Of Psychiatry found vitamin D supplements may help reduce depression symptoms – especially in tandem with antidepressants.

SHINE A LIGHT

A study in Archives Of General Psychiatry revealed ed therapeutic light-therapy devices can ease depression symptoms in people aged 60-plus by as much as 54 per cent in three weeks. Ask your ur GP if a SAD lamp is right for you. The same research found the lights may also lower your production of the stress hormone cortisol.

DRESS WARMLY

“Reduced “R d d mobility, poor circulation and certain medications mean you’re likely to feel the cold weather more after age 70,” explains GP Dr Magdalena Simonis. Make sure your head, hands and feet stay toasty warm by wearing wool, dressing in layers, drinking warm beverages and switching to flannel sheets and a heavier doona.