What lifestyle modifications can I suggest to patients to help alleviate symptoms of SAD?

Lifestyle modifications to suggest for patients with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) include:

• Encouraging regular physical activity, preferably outdoors, such as walking, jogging, swimming, dancing, or gardening, as this can enhance wellbeing and may alleviate depressive symptoms.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and ensuring adequate sleep, which can improve overall sense of wellbeing.
• Advising on good sleep hygiene, including establishing regular sleep and wake times, avoiding heavy meals, smoking, or alcohol before bedtime, and creating a suitable sleep environment.
• Considering light therapy as an option for those with winter depression following a seasonal pattern, although the evidence for its efficacy is uncertain.

These lifestyle changes can be supportive measures alongside other treatments and help improve mood and wellbeing in patients with SAD.

References: ¹,²