Hi. the thread just below yours was starting the same conversation. Vitamin D seemed to help me last year...and my light box...and not this last year (moving and caregiving) I usually do a yoga class...not birkim...
also, I am on a facebook page with others. https://www.facebook.com/groups/sadshop/

Every year is a bit different for me, But I certainly remember the panic of noticing the days getting shorter in August.

Thanks blue violet, I didn't know about the fb of...so I just joined it :). Yah. I'm thinking about getting a smaller light box cuz mine is huge & unmanageable. Def need to get back on my vitamin D regimen.

The exact opposite for me! I HATE summer and can't wait for fall and winter

I feel ya. Although the temps haven't really changed much, the days are getting shorter and the shadows have changed. This is enough to send me into panic mode. I am brand new to this group and this is my first post. I am hoping to do all I can to help myself. Im taking vitamin D and some herbal mood supplements and just ordered a light box. My doc gave me effoxor which after only one dose, I quit because it made me very sick.

Hi Welcome. I am sending you a message too.

I noticed that have been very depressed and crying lately and came here and realized yes-I'm having anxiety about the approaching winter. I see it getting darker earlier, the leaves are falling, it's colder so need a sweater, the waterfalls at my community here are being turned off, and the holidays are here again!

Are you taking Vitamin D? I went from 2000 to 4000 for winter. I also joined another group...sorry but this one is not active enough. the group is on facebook, and is a closed group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/sadshop/?ref=bookmarks

last year I decided to make things "cozy" and I try to think of ways to make my staying inside more, more texturally nice and welcoming. It seems to help. I have the moments of panic when the days suddenly seem short. the first time was August.

Oh, I'm so glad to find this post today. I have been weepy and moody since the weather change and the shorter days. I also live at a lake that drops to a river in the winter, so watching the water recede, along with the other changes has really put me in a funk!
blueviolet, thanks for the link! I take 2000 of vit D, can it be toxic if too much is taken?

It can be, I believe, but I am fairly sure that 2000 is not high enough to worry about. Still, your doctor should be able to tell you more.
I am sending you a message.

Are we allowed to recommend SAD books on the topic or authors? I got some excellent advice from a workbook. I have been reading it and doing the recommended life changes.

What works most for me: finding and using a sunlamp under a doctor's supervision.

The lamp company should offer a 30 day trial period and money-back guarantee. The sunlamp should be done under medical supervision and tried out a little bit at a time to see how one reacts to it. Be careful of night use and any mania it may cause. If you become too wound up, stop it ASAP or greatly reduce time under light. It must be done regularly and timed on a timer. Follow lamp manufacturer's instructions as to lamp distance. It does not work for everyone. Trial and error. Be careful.

Other tips- get outside in the sun even if it is too cold to walk. If it is too cold, ride in a car or stay in the brightest room with most sunlight.

Exercise- outdoor or indoor (a gym, etc). Watch your diet- no added sugar or caffeine. Low fat diet. No cakes or cookies that aren't sugarless, and avoid white flour products- instead brown bread and brown rice, etc.

Keep from being house-bound. Get involved in social activities as much as you can handle. Mediation, yoga, and stress relief. Prioritize.

Don't take on more responsibilities in the Winter. I really found that the sunlamp, diet,exercise, regular sleep, and pleasant activities helped me a lot. Also reducing my stress by taking on big projects in the spring and summer. I also swim a lot in the summer- boosts mood.

Yes...tell us the name of your book.

I started with "winter blues" by dr rosenthal.

All info is good info...even if it doesn't work for all of us, it may help someone!
I agree with not taking too much new stuff on in winter...setting ourselves up for failure!!!!

Does vitamin D really help? how so?