Depression can strike people at specific times during the year and an expert shares healthy practices to use in order to combat it.

According to Dallas County Community Health Educator Natalie Peters, seasonal depression symptoms are prompted by the changing of the temperatures and how long the sky remains lit. She acknowledges that those symptoms include feeling sad most days, having decreased energy levels, an escalation in appetite, and either oversleeping or dealing with insomnia. Peters suggests that introducing natural light is one strategy to overcoming seasonal depression.

“Try to get outside and feel the sun on your face whenever it’s possible. Just standing close to a window several times a day can help to do that. You can also try light therapy with a special light box, but generally it’s good to avoid using tanning beds because those can greatly increase your skin cancer risk.”

Peters urges people to talk with a mental health provider or specialist when symptoms become overwhelming or if the methods you’re trying aren’t working, as they can give recommendations for counseling or medication.