As this unusually sunny fall in Portland comes to an end we are slowly reacquainting ourselves with more scattered rains and the cloudy, gray skies. Most Northwesterners become gradually accustomed to the weather changes and may not notice the effect on our bodies. It’s a busy time of year and easy to get 
wrapped up in taking care of errands and to do lists and everyone else. Out of town guests, holiday feasts, work parties, and travel plans can all quickly derail our daily routine. This is the most important time to be aware of our own mental health and remain conscious of changes we feel within. According to the Cathedral Hill Research Institute of San Francisco, “the lifetime prevalence of a major depressive disorder in women (21.3%) is almost twice that in men (12.7%)”. Not only are new moms susceptible to postpartum depression, but more than 80% of individuals with seasonal affective disorder are women. Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD as it is commonly known) is a type of depression that usually appears during 
late fall or early winter and can be characterized by loss of energy, appetite changes (especially craving for foods high in carbohydrates), and difficulty concentrating and processing information. As the temperature drops and darkness falls earlier some of these symptoms may be common and normal reactions to the changing seasons, but if you are feeling hopeless, or excessively anxious, don't brush it off as simply a case of the "winter blues" that you have to tough out on your own. Talk to your doctor about treatment options.
wrapped up in taking care of errands and to do lists and everyone else. Out of town guests, holiday feasts, work parties, and travel plans can all quickly derail our daily routine. This is the most important time to be aware of our own mental health and remain conscious of changes we feel within. According to the Cathedral Hill Research Institute of San Francisco, “the lifetime prevalence of a major depressive disorder in women (21.3%) is almost twice that in men (12.7%)”. Not only are new moms susceptible to postpartum depression, but more than 80% of individuals with seasonal affective disorder are women. Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD as it is commonly known) is a type of depression that usually appears during 
late fall or early winter and can be characterized by loss of energy, appetite changes (especially craving for foods high in carbohydrates), and difficulty concentrating and processing information. As the temperature drops and darkness falls earlier some of these symptoms may be common and normal reactions to the changing seasons, but if you are feeling hopeless, or excessively anxious, don't brush it off as simply a case of the "winter blues" that you have to tough out on your own. Talk to your doctor about treatment options.Being a participant with Baby Boot Camp, you are already on your way to preventing SAD! Many psychological studies have shown that exercising regularly is one of the best ways to prevent depression. They also suggest good diet, drinking lots of water, socializing, practicing good stress management, and in some cases light therapy. One store in Portland that specializes in light therapy is Sunlan Lighting on Mississippi Ave. Kay Newell is known as the "light bulb lady" and she'll be happy to share more information with you!
And especially in Portland, when it is a sunny day, get out and play! Take a long walk, eat lunch at a nearby park, or rake the leaves in the back yard. Enjoy the sunshine whenever you can.
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