depression or s.a.d.(winter blues)?

Hello everybody this is my first post hope I am doing this right lol.Well I am writing in hopes of some words of advice/encouragement.First off let me say I am very blessed with 2 children,4 stepchildren(hehe,yup),engaged,both work,home,2 vehicles,food of course,shelter,clothing ya know.Sounds awesome and nothing to be depressed for right?Well I am always usually positive,optimistic everything,but idk y the last few weeks boy oh boy feeling very down in the dumps and off.So depressed,sick,sad,tired you name it.Ive tried to kick the feeling and just dont go away,Id like to think maybe its just the winter Ive heard of this "winter blues" but i dont know I want to get out and do other things all I do is work,home-kids,sleep,normal boring stuff but Im afraid and too tired to do anything.It makes me really sad Ive felt like this before but usually goes away soon its at least 3 weeks now Im worried and scared I dont understand why and wish I didnt feel this way.Please if anybody can relate or help Im so lost and confused and its really hard to go on every day feeling like this I dont know what to do anymore.Im happy and not to go to work happy and not to see my kids my fiancee at the same time I just dont know.

Hi gabby. Have you talked with your doctor? Get some blood work done to check hormones and vitamin levels.

I use a full spectrum lamp as I am sensitive to 'winter darkness'. You can get a desk top type or a standing lamp. I also keep regular lights on in the house and 'create' my own 'sundown'. I too, take vitamin D supplements from October thru April.

Make sure you're drinking plenty of water. I tend to not drink as much as in summer, but when I start to feel that 'sluggish' feeling, that's the first thing I do...grab a bottle of water.

I also decorate for New Years, Valentines Day, St. Patricks Day, Easter...the let down after Christmas used to really get to me. Having the appropriate lights and decorations outside and in hasn't just helped me...my neighbors like it too! There aren't nearly as many decorations available so it helps that I must get creative.

The winter blues are real. First, make sure there is no health issues contributing to them. Keep posting, let us know how things are going.

Good luck Gabby, I wish you the best. Keep us posted as to what the doc says.

I hope you have a good day...

Hugs, Karen...