Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression in which symptoms are more severe in the winter. It is sometimes called the “winter depression” for this reason, although it is not uncommon for symptoms to start to appear in autumn as the days get shorter. What Causes SAD? Experts are not entirely sure what causes SAD but there are a few theories that have been put forward. The main theory is based on the effects of lack of sunlight on the body, particularly the prod

Weatherizing your home for each season can make it more comfortable – but how to do it can be confusing. Here are four common weatherizing myths – busted – to help get your home ready for cooler weather to come. Myth 1: It doesn’t matter where your thermostat is placed. Truth: Location, location, location! You may be spending more on heating and cooling than you need to be if your thermostat is in the wrong place. Placed in direct sunlight, you run the risk of getting false r

Do your upcoming travel plans include pets? Whether you’re flying to an exciting destination or hitting the road, these suggestions can make the journey easier for animals and humans alike. • Prep your pet: Traveling can prove stressful to animals, so don’t catch your pet off-guard. Before leaving town, practice taking short rides in the car or spending time in a carrier. This will help your pet get used to the experience. If you haven’t already microchipped your pet, this ma

Even as chronic diseases like prediabetes and high blood pressure touch more and more Americans, physicians are urging patients to keep in mind that early detection is key, and that chronic disease can often be managed with lifestyle changes. “To confront our increasing chronic disease burden, patients must be aware of their risk for type 2 diabetes and hypertension,” says Barbara L. McAneny, M.D., president of the American Medical Association (AMA). “To prevent both of these

Although people hope they won’t get a cold or flu during the winter season, the odds are that they will catch some type of illness during these months. However, you can take some action in advance to minimize the likelihood of getting ill, and if you do, you can have some items on hand to make yourself and your family more comfortable for the duration of your illness. Flu Shots One of the best ways to protect your health during the winter months is to get your annual flu sho