How to Handle Seasonal Mood Struggles with Help from Functional Chocolate

Fall is in full swing, and every day, we edge closer to winter. While the season offers a lot of excitement, from holiday parties and festive decorations to a plethora of outdoor activities like skiing and ice skating, the dark winter months are also known to bring about genuine mental health struggles for many.

This article discusses seasonal mood disorders, common treatments to ease symptoms, and how Functional Chocolate can help combat the winter blues. 

What is a Seasonal Mood Disorder?

Seasonal anxiety or depression can happen during any season, but it is more prevalent during the winter months. The technical term for this is ‘seasonal affective disorder’ or SAD. While there is still no conclusive data on the causes of SAD, it impacts the lives of millions around the world.

This disorder is considered to be a subcategory of depression, and symptoms overlap with other anxiety and depression symptoms but at a greater intensity during certain months. As with any mental health concern, major depressive disorders should be addressed under the guidance and care of a mental health professional. For mild to moderate symptoms of seasonal anxiety and depression, there are some natural treatments to help curb symptoms.

Common Treatments for Seasonal Depression and Anxiety

Light Therapy – Studies have shown that shining a bright light on your face can help ease the symptoms of SAD. However, nothing beats good old-fashioned sun on your skin. Get outside in the sun for at least 30 minutes and soak up some vitamin D to help stabilize your mood. Just don’t forget to apply some mineral-based sunscreen. You’ll be surprised how feeling light on your face and skin can boost your mood almost immediately.

Exercise – Rigorous exercise helps produce serotonin and other feel-good chemicals in the brain. Exercise also performs double duty by burning off stress hormones. When it gets colder outside, it gets easier to make excuses not to exercise, so switch it up. Join an indoor league or try taking a social dance class. Making new friends in the process will also improve your mood and outlook.

Spend time with others – Humans are social creatures. Spending time with people we care about shifts the chemistry of our brains. So, avoid isolating too much and make it a point to call a friend or snuggle up with your partner. Feeling connected to others will help you stay grounded and keep those feel-good hormones elevated.

Herbs for anxiety – Different herbs have been used throughout history to treat common health concerns. Anxiety and depression may improve with the help of herbs and botanicals like peppermint oil, passion flower extract, lemon balm extract, chamomile extract, vanilla bean extract, Ashwagandha, and ginkgo biloba, to name a few. 

Journal – Journaling is a healthy activity that allows you to vent and reflect in a judgment-free zone because you’re the only one reading it. You can also use a journal to track your health and wellness habits, ensuring that you stay on top of doing the things that keep your mind and body healthy.

Make time for yourself – It’s so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day routines that can consume all of our time. Add the “shorter days” of winter, and it feels like there is not enough time in the day to look after yourself. Rest assured, know there are still 24 hours in a day, just like there are in June. Make it a point to do little things for yourself, like breathing intentionally and listening to relaxing music for a few minutes. 

How Functional Chocolate Can Support Mental Health

Functional Chocolate combines the superfood power of dark chocolate and a blend of functional herbs and nutrients to create a unique treat that tastes good and helps you feel good, too. Our Carefree Chocolate was specifically designed to help address the symptoms of anxiety.

With clinically researched and patented Pharma Gaba and L-Theanine, along with herbs like passion flower extract, organic bourbon vanilla bean, lemon balm extract, and chamomile extract, Carefree Chocolate provides flavor and mood-elevating functionality to promote an alert state of relaxation without drowsiness. 

Want to support your health and wellness in a way you enjoy?