Everybody has the occasional bad day when your computer crashes right in the middle of a big work assignment or your mechanic is the bearer of bad (and expensive) news. But, for some people, those bad days can stretch into weeks or even months during winter.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that affects up to 20 percent of the population causing symptoms including weight gain, overwhelming fatigue and a heightened sense of irritability.

If you are starting a new life of sobriety and think you might have seasonal affective disorder, it’s important to talk to your recovery team to get a professional diagnosis. They can put together a targeted treatment plan to help you avoid turning to drugs or alcohol as a way of self-medicating.

Though, similar to many other behavioral health issues, making healthy lifestyle choices can help alleviate the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Here are a few you might consider.

(1) Keep your home and office light and BRIGHT.

Many researchers believe that the root cause of SAD is related to the limited hours of daylight during the winter months. While you can’t fast forward to spring, you can alter your environment. Keep the curtains open at home and put a lamp on your desk at the office.

(2) Get some fresh air.

When you don’t feel like yourself, you might be more inclined to stay inside and hibernate. But, that will likely only exacerbate your mood. Make a point of spending some time outside every day. Even just a brief walk around your block can help.

(3) Nourish yourself with walnuts, salmon and flaxseed.

They offer a good, natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, a healthy fat shown to boost brain health. It works by increasing the level of dopamine in your brain and facilitating neuronal growth in your frontal cortex.

Christ-Based Behavioral Health Treatment

At Christian Rehab Network, our team of credentialed therapists and pastors specialize in treating co-occurring disorders that often accompany addiction. With Christ-based care, we can help you start a new life of sobriety and address other issues including depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. If you are searching for help strengthening your relationship with Christ while overcoming an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call (877) 310-9545 to learn more.

According to the National Center for PTSD, eight percent of the population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. And, it doesn’t discriminate. PTSD can happen to anyone - at any age - as a result of experiencing an extremely stressful or dangerous event including war, physical or sexual assault, prolonged emotional abuse, a car accident or a natural disaster.

While it is normal to react to painful events in life with feelings of anger, nervousness, fear, or even guilt, PTSD is characterized by symptoms so severe that they substantially interfere with your everyday routine such as going to work, maintaining personal relationships and even simple tasks like grocery shopping.

Given the fact that the symptoms of PTSD can mirror many other common behavioral disorders including depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder, it is important to consult a mental health professional in order to get an accurate diagnosis.

Though, there are several characteristics that are unique to PTSD. If you are currently experiencing some of all of the symptoms listed below, contact a local facility that specializes in diagnosing and treating behavioral health disorders.

1. Reliving the event

If you do have PTSD, you may repeatedly relive unpleasant memories or flashbacks about the traumatic event. In these situations, you may start to experience the same feelings and negative emotions that you felt during the initial trauma.

2. Avoiding situations that remind you of the traumatic event.

You may find yourself consciously avoiding situations that remind you of your previous traumatic event. For example, if you suffered a traumatic experience like a car crash, you may find yourself avoiding places that trigger traumatic memories of the original event.

3. Finding it hard to own and express your feelings.

Individuals with PTSD often find it hard to express interest in activities that they once found enjoyable. At times, they might find it hard to communicate their feelings to others and may seem emotionally distant.

4. Constantly looking out for danger around you.

One of the most profound symptoms of PTSD is a sense of impending doom. Those suffering from the disorder often find themselves in a constant state of “high alert” – searching for signs of danger in their environment.

Post-traumatic stress disorder can severely disrupt the life of those suffering from the condition and those around them. If you, or someone you love may be suffering from PTSD, contact an experienced behavioral health provider for help.

Helping You Discover God’s Recovery Plan for You

The addiction specialists at Christian Rehab Network believe that God has employed us to make sure affordable rehab is readily available for all of Christ’s followers, including you. Our Christian-based addiction treatment centers provide the best recovery care available. Our partners address more than your physical and mental needs. They also offer spiritual guidance to help you regain your closeness to Jesus. Call us now at (877) 310-9545, and we will walk by your side through enrollment, treatment, and recovery.