On Thursday, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, proclaiming six more weeks of winter. No surprise. On February 2, we all knew we would have lots more cold weather in our near future...
But something much more significant is happening today. Today we have one more full hour of sunlight than we had on December 21, the shortest day of the year. And for people who have the winter doldrums, this is cause for celebration. People with ADHD have a higher incidence of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) than the general population. Even without a diagnosis of SAD, many people with ADHD report an increased ability to function and uplifted spirits when the days grow longer.
The best way to minimize the effects of SAD is to establish preventive habits before the days are at their shortest. By the first day of school in September, the day is already two hours shorter than it was on the summer solstice. Early autumn is the best time to make plans to minimize the effects of increasingly reduced sunlight. Some suggestions include a good bedtime routine, more exercising, more time outdoors, a lightbox, recommended supplements, relaxation techniques, time with friends, or a mid-winter trip to the tropics!
But today, no matter where you live, we have the gift of an extra hour of sunlight. Enjoy!
But something much more significant is happening today. Today we have one more full hour of sunlight than we had on December 21, the shortest day of the year. And for people who have the winter doldrums, this is cause for celebration. People with ADHD have a higher incidence of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) than the general population. Even without a diagnosis of SAD, many people with ADHD report an increased ability to function and uplifted spirits when the days grow longer.
The best way to minimize the effects of SAD is to establish preventive habits before the days are at their shortest. By the first day of school in September, the day is already two hours shorter than it was on the summer solstice. Early autumn is the best time to make plans to minimize the effects of increasingly reduced sunlight. Some suggestions include a good bedtime routine, more exercising, more time outdoors, a lightbox, recommended supplements, relaxation techniques, time with friends, or a mid-winter trip to the tropics!
But today, no matter where you live, we have the gift of an extra hour of sunlight. Enjoy!