Tulsa Psychiatrist Shares Tips On Avoiding Winter Fatigue

By Tara Vreeland, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Oklahoma's extreme weather is taking a toll on even those used to the weather's mood swings.

The gray skies, shorter days and cold temperatures have many suffering from winter fatigue.

"It affects everybody usually, unless you are from Seattle, then it's not so bad," said Dr. Jeff Mitchell, a psychiatrist.

Dr. Jeff Mitchell of Laureate Psychiatric says there are people biologically vulnerable to seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. 

"From the biological changes that you see in mood disorders, it's usually when the light is changing rapidly, late fall, early spring," said Dr. Jeff Mitchell.

Dr. Mitchell says January through the end of April is the peak time of year for people seeking help and hospitalizations. He says the winter doldrums are completely normal. He says people naturally want to hibernate, but you shouldn't.

"Keep active is one thing. You can't allow yourself to get down and vegetate. You have to keep active," said Dr. Jeff Mitchell.

• To counteract the winter blues, take a walk outdoors -- a little light and exercise goes a long way.
• Eat plenty of protein to boost mental alertness and to keep you full. This will also help you curb those sugary snack cravings and prevent winter weight gain.
• Also, aim for a solid seven to eight hours of sleep, but not too much more. Oversleeping can lead to grogginess which restarts the fatigue cycle.
• Or just try to look at the winter wonderland with a positive perspective.
• Another good tip to counteract winter fatigue is to turn off the computer and the television and put down your cell phone. Staring at the screens zap your energy and the light can interfere with your sleep and wake cycle.