Im a psychologist 6 tips for battling seasonal affective disorder including small tasks that make a big difference

The holidays are just about over — the decorations are down, the leftovers are eaten, the guests are gone, but Old Man Winter is still here.The persistent cold and darkness can make it difficult to get out of bed, concentrate or socialize.These feelings could be characterized as the “winter blues” or a more severe type of depression known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD).The winter blues tend to be tied to specific stressors, like the absence of a loved one or the frustration of cooking, shopping and preparing for the holidays.

Symptoms can last for a few weeks.SAD can linger for four to five months.Symptoms — which can include a low mood that’s tough to shake, an increased desire to sleep, a larger appetite and social withdrawal — emerge in the fall or winter when there’s less daylight.

“The best management of SAD involves strategies that attend to an individual’s mental, physical and emotional well-being,” psychologist Christopher Fisher, director of adult outpatient psychiatry at Northwell Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens, told The Post.Fisher shares six suggestions for combatting seasonal depression and maintaining a sense of purpose through the darker months.Fisher recommends identifying what matters most to you — your family, health, creativity or community, for example — and incorporating these core values into your daily routine.Even in difficult times, worthwhile activities can provide a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction, improve mood and add structure to the day.If your daily regimen seems overwhelming, it can help to devise small goals to get you through the day.“Whether it’s crossing something off your to-do list such as home organization, or completing a home project or an errand, completing small tasks can build momentum and motivation for achieving larger goals,” Fisher said.Exposure to natural light helps regulate the body’s internal clock, improving sleep and overall well-being.Fisher suggests taking ...