Seasonal Affective Disorder Hits New Jersey Hard

Now that summer is officially in progress, the hot temperatures and thunderstorms are upon us in New Jersey every day. I, like many people sometimes feel down or almost depressed when it rains. This is a prime example of Seasonal Affective Disorder. I wonder why or how your brain and body are affected by the weather. Just because it’s sunny we get happy and if it’s gloomy, so are we.

According to new research, Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is becoming a more prominent issue due to the effects of global warming and climate change. 

As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events occur, these fluctuations in weather can intensify feelings of discomfort, stress, and anxiety during the summer months.

Research by MattressNextDay analyzed various weather factors including temperature, pollen, humidity, and rainfall levels to reveal the locations that are at risk the most of suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Similar to Florida at number one on the list, we are statistically more likely to suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder in the summer months. New Jersey’s total index score of eighty-three puts us in the top five.

Our rainfall between May and September averages 4.27 inches and we have high average temperatures in the summer. The higher humidity in the afternoon is also a contributing factor.

This helps to cause us to experience feelings of anxiety and stress, the study shows that this is becoming increasingly common among us and our neighbors.

Coming in at second place with a total index score of eighty-six point six is Louisiana. They’ve got all those swamps, so the heat and humidity are unbearable.

Their average temperatures were tied with Texas as the highest in the country. The third-highest rainfall in the summer is also a contributing factor.

Rounding out the top three is North Carolina which has moderate winters and extremely hot summers. North Carolina is just ahead of New Jersey with the likelihood of developing Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Virginia closes out the top five.

The study factored in average temperature, humidity in both the morning and afternoon, average rainfall, and pollen levels.

One thing that is recommended to lessen the effects is having a steady bedtime routine and sleep schedule. We should also try to limit bright lights at night, use relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, and limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, especially at night.

It is also suggested that you seek support from a mental health professional if your Seasonal Affective Disorder symptoms are severe.

If you’ve never worked from home, you probably think it’s much easier than having to get ready every morning, making sure the kids are taken care of, driving into the office, and being off working all day.

Well, even though working from home has its drawbacks, it usually is much easier for most. My wife has been fortunate enough to be able to do so for the past ten years, and it has made life much easier for her and the family.

The same is true for many other moms who enjoy the flexibility of working from home. They are also very aware of the difficulties involved. For example, you’re working, and trying to do that with kids in the house for the summer makes it much more challenging.

You have to find the perfect balance between your responsibilities as an employee and being a mom. Kids don’t always understand that even though you’re in the house, sometimes you can’t be disturbed for any reason other than an emergency. It’s worth mentioning something you already know, your kids’ definition of an emergency can differ greatly from yours.

So let’s talk about CafeMom.com, and the seven “rules for success” that may be helpful for you and other moms in a similar situation.

Mimi Nicklin is an author and works full-time as the CEO of an ad agency. She works from home and also travels with her family. She’s developed the following methods to make it work for her and the rest of her house.

You need to be comfortable, in an area that’s well-lit and enclosed, so you have the emotional space, as well as the physical space to focus on work and show your family that you’re in “work mode.” You need to set a clear boundary.

You need to follow a consistent daily schedule so you stay organized and manage your time efficiently. Maybe you need to set specific work hours, plan regular breaks and schedule times for family activities. However, you should be open to adjusting it to accommodate all involved.

You may be awesome at your job and great at being a mom, but you should keep in mind that you really can’t do everything. Some things may have to wait. You need to set realistic goals with work and family responsibilities.

Working from home can be isolating, but it’s important to check in with your coworkers. "Regular check-ins, casual virtual coffee dates, and team-building conversations can help you stay connected."

Some people have a hard time doing this, but doing everything on your own can be equally difficult. Asking for a little help from family members or your team at work is a sign of strength.

It’s easy to focus on the struggles, but you need to acknowledge your achievements and celebrate the win with all involved. This will keep you positive so you have the right mindset for the next day.
For the full article go to CafeMom.com