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Depression even in the summer? 4 tips to be happy

Depression even in the summer? 4 tips to be happy

There are not a few who feel sad and melancholy in the summer despite the abundant light, vacations and free time for friends and family.

Sometimes it just takes a little extra effort, says Lina Begdache, associate professor of Health and Wellness Studies at Binghamton State University of New York.

According to her latest publication, there are ways to feel more joy, and the following tips can help you achieve that goal:

"The way our brain works, the more negative thoughts are cultivated, the more likely we are to be in a bad mood and feel unhappy. The good news is that the brain is modifiable, that is, it has plasticity. People can weaken its negative 'association' by thinking positive thoughts ," said Dr. Begdache.

Lifestyle plays a key role in mood. Fluctuations in blood sugar can lead to the feeling described by the term "hungry," a combination of the words hunger and anger that describes the bad mood and irritability caused by hunger. Healthy eating patterns such as the Mediterranean diet are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory chemicals that promote brain and heart health, said Dr. Begdache.

A healthy sleep routine can help the brain consistently produce the chemicals needed to maintain a positive mood.

"There is a strong correlation between gratitude and happiness ," comments Jennifer Wegmann, a lecturer in Health and Wellness Studies at Binghamton University. As he explains, the practice of gratitude contains two steps: first, it requires "slowing down" so that the person can feel the present and understand what is right in his life. Then, he must find the source of goodness.

By saying "thank you" and making notes on a calendar or through reminder apps, anyone can "remember" to be grateful for each day.

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