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Wisconsin AG seeks to stop Elon Musk's $1M payments at rally giveaway; Rural advocates urge CA lawmakers to safeguard banking protections; Federal, state job cuts threaten FL workers' rights, services; Alabama counties lack high-speed internet and health access.

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President Trump says there are ways for him to take a third term. New tariffs are scheduled for this week, but economists say they'll hurt buying power. And advocates say the Trans Day of Visibility is made more important by state legislation.

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Rural folks face significant clean air and water risks due to EPA cutbacks, a group of policymakers is working to expand rural health care via mobile clinics, and a new study maps Montana's news landscape.

Texans missing the sunshine could be suffering from winter blues

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Tuesday, February 18, 2025   

Cold temperatures, decreased sunlight and fewer interactions with family and friends are some of the reasons Texans might suffer from seasonal affective disorder.

Symptoms of the seasonal form of depression include feelings of hopelessness, fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

Keva Mack, a licensed massage therapist and board-certified holistic health practitioner, said it is important to increase your vitamin D intake during the winter months.

"One of the things that you can do to manage that is to get out into the sunlight," Mack explained. "You can also open up the windows in your home and sit near a window that has exposure to the sunlight."

She added vitamin D supplements and foods fortified with vitamin D can also help lift your mood.

In a recent study, 40% of Americans said their mood declines during the winter. Mack noted healthy eating and maintaining an active lifestyle can help manage symptoms.

"Exercising helps to boost endorphins and serotonin in your brain," Mack pointed out. "Determining what time you're going to go to sleep, what time you're going to eat, those things help to sync your circadian rhythm. Avoiding excessive amounts of sugar and caffeine. Those things help to knock your circadian rhythm off."

If all natural methods do not change your mood, you may need to seek medical help.

Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer and executive vice president of UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, said you should start with your primary care physician.

"They're trained in making referrals if they think that you need more support," Randall emphasized. "There may also be resources available to you through your health plan. For example, many UnitedHealthcare members have access to the CALM app."

Disclosure: UnitedHealthcare contributes to our fund for reporting on Health Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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