Tips for managing seasonal affective disorder

<p>In this episode, we welcome Stephanie Straeter, a clinical psychologist. The holidays are often portrayed as a time of joy and thankfulness, but for many people, this is not the case. In fact, 3 percent of individuals struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) during the holidays. This episode explores the unrealistic expectations placed on individuals during the holidays and how to successfully manage emotions during this time. Stephanie provides five simple steps for finding peace and tranquility during the holidays, including recognizing and accepting negative emotions, practicing deep breathing and mindfulness, expressing gratitude, being mindful of substance intake, and seeking help if necessary. She also offers helpful tips for those who struggle with SAD, including developing a self-care plan, seeking wellness coaching or therapy, and taking advantage of available mental health services through insurance. Join us for a valuable discussion on navigating the holidays with SAD.</p> <p><a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-v-straeter-phd-7222252b/" target="_blank" rel="follow noopener noreferrer" data-wpel-link= "exclude">Stephanie Straeter</a> is a behavioral health and wellness program developer.</p> <p>She shares her story and discusses her KevinMD article, "<a href="https://www.kevinmd.com/2022/11/5-tips-for-treating-seasonal-depression-during-the-holidays.html">5 tips for treating seasonal depression during the holidays</a>."</p> <p><a href="https://nuance.com/daxinaction"><img class= "alignnone wp-image-424286 size-medium" src= "https://www.kevinmd.com/wp-content/uploads/NuanceLogo_Horz_k-2-300x62.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="62" /></a></p> <p><em>The Podcast by KevinMD is brought to you by the <a href= "https://nuance.com/daxinaction">Nuance Dragon Ambient eXperience</a>.</em></p> <p><em>With a growing physician shortage, increasing burnout, and declining patient satisfaction, a dramatic change is needed to make health care more efficient and effective and bring back the joy of prac