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Wildfires prompt evacuation in the Carolinas as New Jersey crews battle their own blaze; Iowa town halls find 'empty chairs'; CA groups bring generations together to work on society's biggest problems; PA works to counter Trump clean energy rollbacks.

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Lawmakers from both parties face angry constituents. Some decide to skip town halls rather than address concerned voters and Kentucky considers mandatory Medicaid work requirements.

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Cuts to Medicaid and frozen funding for broadband are both likely to have a negative impact on rural healthcare, which is already struggling. Plus, lawsuits over the mass firing of federal workers have huge implications for public lands.

Wintry months may prompt seasonal depression among NYers

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Friday, February 21, 2025   

New York's snowy winter could trigger what experts now know as seasonal affective disorder.

More than 1 million New Yorkers suffer from it during the winter months. Studies show people with the condition tend to sleep more, feel tired and depressed in the winter. It usually appears when people are age 20-30, and can impair cognitive function, cause a loss of interest in hobbies and make people more isolated.

Bridget Rippe, president of the Psychological Association of Western New York, said seasonal affective disorder differs from the winter blues.

"When we look at the impact of how it affects an individual in terms of the frequency of the symptoms, it's different than just not wanting to go out on a cold day, versus four to five months at a time, and the intensity of the symptoms, too," Rippe explained.

Rippe suggested people see their physician first to rule out other causes. Treatments for seasonal affective disorder include light therapy to mimic sunlight and talk therapy to reduce avoidant behavior and negative thoughts, and learn how to manage stress. She noted medications could also be necessary.

Self-diagnosing seasonal affective disorder can lead to people not understanding the severity of it.

Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer and executive vice president of UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, said even when you are feeling blue, it is important not to close yourself off from people you enjoy, since social health is directly tied to physical health.

"People who have strong social connections actually live longer," Randall pointed out. "When we think about longevity and quality of life, those strong ties to friends and family are very good for our health. So, surrounding yourself with a support network is important."

Seasonal affective disorder is not only confined to winter. Studies show 10% of people get it in the spring and summer. Along with maintaining a good social network, regular physical activity and getting enough sleep can help people cope.

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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