Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/401614
SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD) is a common concern for older adults, especially those who live in northern states with colder climates. Characterized by fatigue, depression, insomnia, and loss of interest in activities, SAD typically strikes when nights get longer and temperatures drop. "As we age, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions can make it more difficult to get outdoors and stay busy, which plays a role in all types of depression, including SAD," says Christine Valentine, nurse practitioner at KishHealth System Center for Family Health in Malta. "If you're struggling with seasonal depression, treatments are available to help you lead a more productive, healthier, and happier life." Eating a healthy diet and staying active can ease SAD symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend talk therapy or light therapy, which involves sitting near a light box for 30 minutes every day. Relieving Seasonal Depression IF THE RETURN OF WINTER WEATHER HAS LEFT YOU FEELING SLUGGISH AND BLUE, YOU'RE NOT ALONE. FORTUNATELY, HELP IS AVAILABLE. KISHPROGRAMS.ORG Yoga $35/Once a Week $70/ Twice a Week Registration Required VALLEY WEST HOSPITAL - 815.786.8550 Mon. & Wed. Jan. 5 - Feb. 25, 6 - 7 pm KISHHEALTH SYSTEM PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER - 815.748.8900 Tues. & Thurs. Jan. 6 - Feb. 26, 5 - 6 pm Gentle Yoga $35/Once a Week $70/ Twice a Week Registration Required VALLEY WEST HOSPITAL - 815.786.8550 Jan. 5 - Feb. 27, Noon - 1 pm GOT MELATONIN? Melatonin is a hormone that regulates day and night sleep cycles. Your body naturally produces melatonin when the sun goes down to help you sleep. Because it gets darker earlier in the evening during winter months, seasonal changes can disrupt normal melatonin production and contribute to insomnia. If a good night's sleep becomes more elusive once cold weather sets in, speak with your doctor about taking a melatonin supplement. Looking for a primary care provider? KishHealth System's Center for Family Health in Malta offers a variety of services, including care for chronic conditions and preventive wellness exams. To make an appointment, call 815.754.1089. PERSISTENT FATIGUE is a common symptom of a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea. If you regularly feel tired after sleeping for eight hours, call 815.277.3979 to schedule a diagnostic sleep study at the KishHealth System Sleep Disorder Center in DeKalb or Sandwich. You need an order from your doctor. / W I N T E R 1 5 3