Winter depression, known by the medical community as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is quite common and moms are just as likely to be effected as anyone else.

Statistics show that as many as 6% of people in the United States have SAD. Another 10 to 20% suffer from winter blues, a milder form of SAD. More women than men get SAD, and young adults are more prone to it than children or older adults.

Symptoms of SAD?

The symptoms of SAD are similar to those of regular depression. Sufferers may experience weight gain, decreased energy and fatigue. They may have difficulty concentrating, irritability and an aversion to social situations.

The main difference between SAD and depression is that SAD only affects its sufferers in the winter. The shorter days and longer nights give people less exposure to light and it triggers depression in those with SAD. In the spring, when there are more daylight hours, symptoms subside.

Light Therapy

In light therapy, a light box or other device that emits a bright light is used. Patients sit in front of the light source for a specified period of time, which varies according to the intensity of the light. This is ideally done in the morning. Studies have shown that it may be beneficial if used at any time of day, but use in the evenings could cause insomnia.

The key to success with light therapy is sticking with it. It takes time and it may be a few weeks before a patient sees results. When used consistently it can be very beneficial.

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Allergies, nasal irritants and colds can all trigger sinus trouble. There are herbal remedies that may provide relief, here are just a few:

Garlic

Garlic kills bacteria and fungi. No matter which one is causing your sinus infection, garlic can help. It is best used fresh but the cloves must be crushed in order to obtain maximum effectiveness.

If you can’t stand to eat raw garlic, you could juice a couple of cloves and add the juice to a more palatable vegetable juice.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Many people find apple cider vinegar effective in helping to prevent sinus infections. Drinking 1/8 to 1/4 cup per day diluted in water thins the mucus, making it less likely that an infection will form. If you already have an infection this can help increase drainage and decrease congestion.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract is a powerful herbal antibiotic. It must be diluted in warm water before use. You can make a nasal spray out of it and use it every hour or two.

You can also dilute grapefruit seed extract and use it in a neti pot. A neti pot is a ceramic pot that is used to flush out the sinuses.

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One of the things that moms dread about winter is the flu. There’s nothing worse that seeing your kids sick and not be able to do much to help them. Keeping your family’s immune system strong helps them fight off sickness.

Here are a few quick tips for you:

• Make sure that the entire family eats a healthy, balanced diet. (Less fast food – more fresh fruits and veggies.)
• Get plenty of rest.
• Exercise.
• Wash hands frequently. (Teach your school age kids to wash hands between classes, etc.)
• Keep household and car surfaces clean. (Give your teens hand sanitizer or wipes for their school lockers.)

To learn more, check out the Mom’s Talk Guide to Raising Happy & Healthy Kids – Tips and resources address nutrition, exercise, sleep, routines, and much more.