Winter Blues Survival Guide A Workbook for Overcoming SAD

If you have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), take heart. A range of effective treatments and preventive measures can help you feel healthy and productive, even on the darkest days. Yet when depression kicks in, it's tough to mobilize yourself to find and use the information you need to feel better. That's where this skillfully crafted workbook comes in. Leading SAD expert Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal guides you step by step to:

*Record your symptoms, such as low moods, fatigue, sleep problems, and food cravings.
*Gain awareness of your seasonal patterns--to anticipate problems before they arise.
*Determine which remedies to try, including light therapy, meditation, lifestyle changes, antidepressants, and psychotherapy.
*Keep track of what works and how long it takes for symptoms to improve.
*Spend your high-energy months equipping yourself for the times when energy is low.

By working through the book's simple checklists and fill-in-the-blank forms (you can download and print additional copies as needed), you'll create your own blueprint for greater well-being all year long. Let there be light!

See also Dr. Rosenthal's Winter Blues, Fourth Edition, which provides a comprehensive overview of SAD and its treatment.
 

Norman E. Rosenthal, MD, is internationally recognized for his pioneering contributions to understanding SAD and using light therapy to treat it. He is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Georgetown Medical School, a therapist in private practice, and the author of five books, including Winter Blues and Transcendence: Healing and Transformation Through Transcendental Meditation. Dr. Rosenthal conducted research at the National Institute of Mental Health for over 20 years. Christine M. Benton is a Chicago-based writer and editor.

Introduction I. Everything You Need to Know to Feel Less SAD 1. What Do You Know about Your Relationship with the Seasons? 2. Your Seasonal Profile 3. What's Making You Feel So SAD? 4. Identifying the Best Treatments for You 5. Planning to Beat SAD 6. Tailoring Your Plan: Awareness, Preparation, and Prevention Throughout the Revolving Year II. Treatments, Tools, and Strategies You Can Use 7. Light Therapy 8. More Light: Brightening Your Environment, at Home and Away 9. Lightening the Load: Acceptance, Stress Management, and Support 10. A Life(style) Less SAD: Exercise, Supplements, and Substances 11. Dietary Strategies for Controlling Weight and SAD 12. Transcending the Blues: Meditation and Relaxation 13. Finding Your Happiness: Pleasant Activities 14. Using Your Head: Helpful Thoughts 15. Medication for SAD Appendix: What I Would Like You to Know about SAD Resources