With the days are getting shorter and the temperatures colder, it’s common to feel slightly depressed as you patiently wait for the first blooms of spring – leaving many to wonder if winter depression is a real thing.
The answer is “yes,” winter depression, or fall and winter seasonal affective disorder, is a real ailment that affects many every year. So, what are some of the signs of winter depression?
- Oversleeping
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Difficulty concentrating
- Social withdrawal
- Loss of energy
- Appetite changes – especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates
- Feelings of hopelessness and anxiety
But, have no fear – treatment is readily available and highly effective.
- For starters, taking walks outside during lunch on sunny days without sunglasses on can be extremely beneficial.
- Your brain craves exposure to sunlight during the winter and, even if it’s cold outside, will respond positively to a little time in the sun.
However, if you feel like more consistent exposure is needed, consider purchasing a sunlight lamp for your home.
- Finally, simple antidepressant therapy can make all the difference in the world.
- So, talk to your doctor about what may work best for you while you brave the winter cold.
This post is sponsored by Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center.
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Phil was welcomed with chants of “Phil, Phil, Phil,” and pulled from a hatch on his tree stump shortly after sunrise before a member of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club read from a scroll in which he boasted: “Only I know — you can’t trust A.I.”
At approximately 2:45 P.M. on Saturday, February 1st, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) responded to a reported structure fire in the 100 block of Aquia Creek Road, near Aquia Creek. Callers reported a neighboring residence on fire, and first arriving units marked the scene less than 10 minutes later and confirmed fire and smoke coming from the rear and roof of a single-family residence.
Due to a lack of hydrants in the area, crews had to utilize rural water operations to shuttle water to the scene. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire and bring it under control in approximately an hour, despite the roof collapsing.
The residence was not occupied at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported. The fire is under routine investigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office. SCFR units were assisted on scene by Quantico Fire and Emergency Services.
(AP) — Preliminary data from the deadliest U.S. aviation accident in nearly 25 years showed conflicting readings about the altitudes of an airliner and Army helicopter when they collided near Reagan National Airport in Washington, killing everyone aboard both aircraft, investigators said Saturday.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
