Calvin C Williams, LPC
Calvin C Williams, LPC
S3, Episode 8: Illuminating Seasonal Affective Disorder: Strategies for a Brighter Winter
S3, Episode 8: Illuminating Seasonal Affective Disorder: Strategies for a Brighter Winter
S3, Episode 8: Illuminating Seasonal Affective Disorder: Strategies for a Brighter Winter
Friday 24th January 2025
Learn how to manage Seasonal Affective Disorder with expert tips on light therapy, CBT, medication, and lifestyle changes from Calvin Williams.
Explicit
15 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Encouraging
Hopeful
Compassionate
About this podcast
Author:
Calvin C Williams, LPC
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Entrepreneurship for Personal Growth
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Spiritual & Personal Growth Journeys
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
49 (View all)
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!Shining Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder: Strategies for Winter Wellness
Episode Overview
- SAD is a diagnosable condition affecting mood and energy levels.
- Light therapy involves sitting near a light box mimicking natural sunlight.
- CBT helps reframe negative thoughts and encourages joyful activities.
- Medication like SSRIs can be effective for some people.
- Simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve SAD symptoms.
You haven't invented anything new or broke any records. Remember folks, life is not about finding yourself; life is about creating yourself.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can be a real challenge during the colder months, and Calvin Williams, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience, is here to shed light on this important topic. In this episode of The Counselor's Couch, Calvin dives into the symptoms, causes, and effective strategies for managing SAD.
He explains that SAD is more than just feeling down during winter; it's a diagnosable condition that affects mood, energy levels, sleep patterns, and overall quality of life. Calvin shares that around 5% of adults in the US suffer from SAD, while up to 20% experience milder seasonal mood changes. He highlights the importance of recognizing symptoms like persistent sadness, low energy, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep and appetite.
To combat SAD, Calvin discusses several practical strategies including light therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medication, and lifestyle changes. Light therapy involves sitting near a light box that mimics natural sunlight for about 20-30 minutes a day. CBT helps reframe negative thoughts and encourages activities that bring joy. Medication like SSRIs can also be effective for some people.
Additionally, simple lifestyle changes such as maximizing sunlight exposure, regular exercise, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and eating a balanced diet can make a significant difference. Calvin also provides tips for supporting loved ones who may be struggling with SAD. Listening without judgment, encouraging professional help, and offering practical support are key ways to help someone manage their symptoms.
He reminds us that supporting someone with SAD can be draining, so it's important to take care of our own mental health too. Finally, Calvin shares coping strategies for everyone during the darker months. Creating a winter routine, staying socially connected, practicing gratitude, and embracing hygge – the Danish concept of coziness – can help boost mood and make winter more enjoyable.
This episode is packed with valuable information and actionable tips to help you or your loved ones navigate the challenges of SAD. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion that could make a big difference in your winter well-being.