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Can't get out of bed in winter

The alarm goes off and the room is still dark. Your body feels heavy, slow, and glued to the sheets. In June you got up fine, but winter mornings feel like wading through mud.

Light is the main signal for your body clock. When mornings stay dark, your body may keep making melatonin, the sleep hormone. Waking can then feel late and hard, even after eight hours in bed.

Short days can pull your mood and drive down too. Doctors call this winter pattern seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. Other things look much the same, such as low iron, a slow thyroid, poor sleep, or low mood that lasts all year.

When to see someone

See a doctor if you are missing work or school, or staying in bed most days. Get help right away if you have thoughts of harming yourself or of not wanting to be here.

Book a visit soon for loud snoring or gasping at night, a big weight change, heavy periods, or the same heavy tiredness in summer. A blood test can rule out thyroid and iron problems.

How to read the grades below

Below is a list of things people try for winter lows, each with an evidence grade. A high grade means more solid research exists, not a promise about you. A low grade means the proof is thin or mixed, so talk with your doctor before you start anything or change a medicine.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): natural remedies and the evidence behind them

8 options · 1 graded A · 1 graded B · 6 traditional or ungraded

How is your SAD showing up most this season?

The classic winter slump - oversleeping, sluggish mornings, and carb cravings that lift when days get longer

  1. Blue Light Therapy

    Supported by controlled trials· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade A · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Bright morning light for the winter slump

    Why it may be relevant
    If your slump eases as the days get longer, bright light therapy mimics that longer daylight: morning light exposure to help reset your body clock and lift oversleeping and sluggishness.
    Why try it
    Bright morning light is a first-line approach for winter SAD, and a meta-analysis of randomized trials found blue-enriched light therapy improved winter depression symptoms. Many people notice a lift within the first couple of weeks.
    Dose or use
    Typically about 30 minutes of bright light-box exposure in the morning; follow the device's guidance.
    Time to results
    Typically 1-2 weeks
    Key study
    Meta-Analysis (2022, PMID 35522196): Blue-Light Therapy for Seasonal and Non-Seasonal Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Pooled nine RCTs (seven in seasonal depression, n=347) and found blue-enriched light therapy improved depression symptoms versus control.
    Caution
    Can cause eye strain, headache, or overstimulation. If you have an eye condition or bipolar disorder, check with a doctor before starting.

  2. Vitamin D Deficiency

    Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use

    Low winter sunlight can drop vitamin D

    Why it may be relevant
    The winter slump often tracks with less sunlight, and less sun means less vitamin D, which the library links to low mood in the darker months.
    Why try it
    Getting your vitamin D level checked is a simple step; low mood and fatigue can be associated with low vitamin D, especially in winter.
    Dose or use
    Ask your doctor for a blood test, then supplement to correct a confirmed deficiency under guidance.
    Time to results
    Typically several weeks after correcting a deficiency
    Key study
    The library guide notes low mood or depression can be associated with low vitamin D, particularly in the winter months; this is an association, not proof of cause.
    Caution
    More is not better; high-dose vitamin D can be harmful. Supplement to correct a tested deficiency, not blindly.

  3. Tryptophan Deficiency

    Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use

    Low tryptophan can mean low serotonin

    Why it may be relevant
    When winter brings a flat, low mood, it can reflect low serotonin, and tryptophan is the amino acid your body needs to make it.
    Why try it
    The library links low tryptophan to irritability, anxiety, and depression, so addressing it targets the low-serotonin side of seasonal mood dips.
    Dose or use
    Support through protein-rich foods or supplementation; discuss testing and dosing with your provider.
    Time to results
    Typically a few weeks
    Key study
    The library guide links low tryptophan to irritability, anxiety, and depression through reduced serotonin; this is a mechanistic association, not a SAD-specific trial.
    Caution
    If you take antidepressants or other serotonergic medicines, raising tryptophan should be done only with medical advice.

Mostly in my head - negative thoughts, hopelessness, or feeling stuck in a dark loop

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Targets seasonal negative thought patterns directly

    Why it may be relevant
    If SAD is showing up most as stuck or hopeless thinking, CBT works by identifying and reshaping the seasonal beliefs that fuel winter depression.
    Why try it
    Supported by clinical research, CBT adapted for SAD has shown a durability advantage — meaning the mindset shifts it builds may help protect against SAD returning in future winters.
    Dose or use
    Typically 8–12 structured sessions with a trained therapist; SAD-specific CBT protocols are available.
    Time to results
    Typically 6–12 weeks
    Key study
    RCT (2023, PMID 37330257): Change in Seasonal Beliefs Mediates the Durability Advantage of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Over Light Therapy for Winter Depression.
    Caution
    Best delivered by a licensed mental health professional; not a substitute for crisis support if needed.

  2. St. John's wort

    Centuries of traditional use across more than one tradition· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical)Classical use across multiple traditions

    Herbal support for low winter mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD shows up most as negative, hopeless thinking, St. John's wort is traditionally used to lift low mood through the darker months.
    Why try it
    It is one of the most widely used herbal options for depression and low mood. It is offered here on the basis of that established herbal use rather than a SAD-specific trial held in our library.
    Dose or use
    Commonly taken as a standardized extract; follow product labeling and start at a low dose. Check with a pharmacist first.
    Time to results
    Typically 4-6 weeks
    Key study
    Traditionally and widely used for depression and low mood; this specific SAD use has not been confirmed in a controlled clinical trial held in our library.
    Caution
    Interacts with many prescription drugs, including antidepressants, birth control, and blood thinners. Do not combine with other medicines without checking with a pharmacist or doctor.

A flat, heavy mood - low energy, no spark, and little motivation to do anything

  1. L-tryptophan

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Serotonin building block for flat mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD feels like a flat mood and low energy, L-tryptophan is the amino acid your body uses to make serotonin, the mood-steadying chemical that tends to dip in winter.
    Why try it
    It is offered as a serotonin precursor to support the low-serotonin side of winter low mood, on that mechanistic basis rather than a SAD-specific trial held in our library.
    Dose or use
    Taken as an oral supplement, often away from protein-heavy meals; follow product labeling.
    Time to results
    Typically 2-6 weeks
    Key study
    Used as a serotonin precursor for low mood; this specific SAD use has not been confirmed in a controlled clinical trial held in our library.
    Caution
    Can interact with antidepressants and other serotonergic medicines; do not combine without medical advice.

  2. Music Therapy

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Guided music to lift a flat winter mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD sits as a flat, heavy mood, music therapy uses guided listening and music-making with a trained therapist to gently lift mood and energy.
    Why try it
    The library notes music therapy improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression. It is offered on that basis rather than a SAD-specific controlled trial held for this item in our library.
    Dose or use
    Sessions with a credentialed music therapist, or simple daily guided listening at home.
    Time to results
    Typically 3-6 weeks
    Key study
    Music therapy is used to support mood and ease depressive symptoms; this specific SAD use is not tied to a controlled trial held for this item in our library.
    Caution
    Generally low-risk; choose a credentialed therapist for structured work and skip tracks that stir up distressing memories.

  3. DU20 (Baihui) - Governing Vessel 20

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Crown point traditionally used to lift mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD feels like low energy and a flat mood, DU20 (Baihui), at the crown of the head, is the classic point traditionally used to lift energy and mood.
    Why try it
    In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this point is used to uplift energy, ease mild low mood, and clear mental fatigue and brain fog.
    Dose or use
    Apply gentle, steady pressure to the crown of the head for 1-2 minutes, breathing slowly.
    Time to results
    Varies; often used as an ongoing daily practice
    Key study
    Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to uplift mood and relieve mental fatigue; this specific use has not been confirmed in a controlled clinical trial held in our library.
    Caution
    A gentle self-care practice, not a treatment for clinical depression; seek professional care for persistent or severe symptoms.

  4. Tryptophan Deficiency

    Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use

    Low tryptophan can mean low serotonin

    Why it may be relevant
    When winter brings a flat, low mood, it can reflect low serotonin, and tryptophan is the amino acid your body needs to make it.
    Why try it
    The library links low tryptophan to irritability, anxiety, and depression, so addressing it targets the low-serotonin side of seasonal mood dips.
    Dose or use
    Support through protein-rich foods or supplementation; discuss testing and dosing with your provider.
    Time to results
    Typically a few weeks
    Key study
    The library guide links low tryptophan to irritability, anxiety, and depression through reduced serotonin; this is a mechanistic association, not a SAD-specific trial.
    Caution
    If you take antidepressants or other serotonergic medicines, raising tryptophan should be done only with medical advice.

What kind of help feels right for you this winter?

I'd rather build simple daily habits at home - morning light, acupressure, or mood-lifting music

  1. Blue Light Therapy

    Supported by controlled trials· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade A · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Bright morning light for the winter slump

    Why it may be relevant
    If your slump eases as the days get longer, bright light therapy mimics that longer daylight: morning light exposure to help reset your body clock and lift oversleeping and sluggishness.
    Why try it
    Bright morning light is a first-line approach for winter SAD, and a meta-analysis of randomized trials found blue-enriched light therapy improved winter depression symptoms. Many people notice a lift within the first couple of weeks.
    Dose or use
    Typically about 30 minutes of bright light-box exposure in the morning; follow the device's guidance.
    Time to results
    Typically 1-2 weeks
    Key study
    Meta-Analysis (2022, PMID 35522196): Blue-Light Therapy for Seasonal and Non-Seasonal Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Pooled nine RCTs (seven in seasonal depression, n=347) and found blue-enriched light therapy improved depression symptoms versus control.
    Caution
    Can cause eye strain, headache, or overstimulation. If you have an eye condition or bipolar disorder, check with a doctor before starting.

  2. Music Therapy

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Guided music to lift a flat winter mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD sits as a flat, heavy mood, music therapy uses guided listening and music-making with a trained therapist to gently lift mood and energy.
    Why try it
    The library notes music therapy improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression. It is offered on that basis rather than a SAD-specific controlled trial held for this item in our library.
    Dose or use
    Sessions with a credentialed music therapist, or simple daily guided listening at home.
    Time to results
    Typically 3-6 weeks
    Key study
    Music therapy is used to support mood and ease depressive symptoms; this specific SAD use is not tied to a controlled trial held for this item in our library.
    Caution
    Generally low-risk; choose a credentialed therapist for structured work and skip tracks that stir up distressing memories.

  3. DU20 (Baihui) - Governing Vessel 20

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Crown point traditionally used to lift mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD feels like low energy and a flat mood, DU20 (Baihui), at the crown of the head, is the classic point traditionally used to lift energy and mood.
    Why try it
    In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this point is used to uplift energy, ease mild low mood, and clear mental fatigue and brain fog.
    Dose or use
    Apply gentle, steady pressure to the crown of the head for 1-2 minutes, breathing slowly.
    Time to results
    Varies; often used as an ongoing daily practice
    Key study
    Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to uplift mood and relieve mental fatigue; this specific use has not been confirmed in a controlled clinical trial held in our library.
    Caution
    A gentle self-care practice, not a treatment for clinical depression; seek professional care for persistent or severe symptoms.

I'd rather work with a professional - structured therapy or guided sessions

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Supported by smaller clinical studies (Evidence grade B · No traditional record)

    Targets seasonal negative thought patterns directly

    Why it may be relevant
    If SAD is showing up most as stuck or hopeless thinking, CBT works by identifying and reshaping the seasonal beliefs that fuel winter depression.
    Why try it
    Supported by clinical research, CBT adapted for SAD has shown a durability advantage — meaning the mindset shifts it builds may help protect against SAD returning in future winters.
    Dose or use
    Typically 8–12 structured sessions with a trained therapist; SAD-specific CBT protocols are available.
    Time to results
    Typically 6–12 weeks
    Key study
    RCT (2023, PMID 37330257): Change in Seasonal Beliefs Mediates the Durability Advantage of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Over Light Therapy for Winter Depression.
    Caution
    Best delivered by a licensed mental health professional; not a substitute for crisis support if needed.

  2. Music Therapy

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Guided music to lift a flat winter mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD sits as a flat, heavy mood, music therapy uses guided listening and music-making with a trained therapist to gently lift mood and energy.
    Why try it
    The library notes music therapy improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression. It is offered on that basis rather than a SAD-specific controlled trial held for this item in our library.
    Dose or use
    Sessions with a credentialed music therapist, or simple daily guided listening at home.
    Time to results
    Typically 3-6 weeks
    Key study
    Music therapy is used to support mood and ease depressive symptoms; this specific SAD use is not tied to a controlled trial held for this item in our library.
    Caution
    Generally low-risk; choose a credentialed therapist for structured work and skip tracks that stir up distressing memories.

I'd rather get to the root of it - check whether low vitamin D or tryptophan is dragging my mood down

  1. Vitamin D Deficiency

    Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use

    Low winter sunlight can drop vitamin D

    Why it may be relevant
    The winter slump often tracks with less sunlight, and less sun means less vitamin D, which the library links to low mood in the darker months.
    Why try it
    Getting your vitamin D level checked is a simple step; low mood and fatigue can be associated with low vitamin D, especially in winter.
    Dose or use
    Ask your doctor for a blood test, then supplement to correct a confirmed deficiency under guidance.
    Time to results
    Typically several weeks after correcting a deficiency
    Key study
    The library guide notes low mood or depression can be associated with low vitamin D, particularly in the winter months; this is an association, not proof of cause.
    Caution
    More is not better; high-dose vitamin D can be harmful. Supplement to correct a tested deficiency, not blindly.

  2. Tryptophan Deficiency

    Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional use

    Low tryptophan can mean low serotonin

    Why it may be relevant
    When winter brings a flat, low mood, it can reflect low serotonin, and tryptophan is the amino acid your body needs to make it.
    Why try it
    The library links low tryptophan to irritability, anxiety, and depression, so addressing it targets the low-serotonin side of seasonal mood dips.
    Dose or use
    Support through protein-rich foods or supplementation; discuss testing and dosing with your provider.
    Time to results
    Typically a few weeks
    Key study
    The library guide links low tryptophan to irritability, anxiety, and depression through reduced serotonin; this is a mechanistic association, not a SAD-specific trial.
    Caution
    If you take antidepressants or other serotonergic medicines, raising tryptophan should be done only with medical advice.

I'd rather try something I can take - herbal or nutritional supplements for winter mood

  1. L-tryptophan

    Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional staple

    Serotonin building block for flat mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD feels like a flat mood and low energy, L-tryptophan is the amino acid your body uses to make serotonin, the mood-steadying chemical that tends to dip in winter.
    Why try it
    It is offered as a serotonin precursor to support the low-serotonin side of winter low mood, on that mechanistic basis rather than a SAD-specific trial held in our library.
    Dose or use
    Taken as an oral supplement, often away from protein-heavy meals; follow product labeling.
    Time to results
    Typically 2-6 weeks
    Key study
    Used as a serotonin precursor for low mood; this specific SAD use has not been confirmed in a controlled clinical trial held in our library.
    Caution
    Can interact with antidepressants and other serotonergic medicines; do not combine without medical advice.

  2. St. John's wort

    Centuries of traditional use across more than one tradition· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use classical)Classical use across multiple traditions

    Herbal support for low winter mood

    Why it may be relevant
    When SAD shows up most as negative, hopeless thinking, St. John's wort is traditionally used to lift low mood through the darker months.
    Why try it
    It is one of the most widely used herbal options for depression and low mood. It is offered here on the basis of that established herbal use rather than a SAD-specific trial held in our library.
    Dose or use
    Commonly taken as a standardized extract; follow product labeling and start at a low dose. Check with a pharmacist first.
    Time to results
    Typically 4-6 weeks
    Key study
    Traditionally and widely used for depression and low mood; this specific SAD use has not been confirmed in a controlled clinical trial held in our library.
    Caution
    Interacts with many prescription drugs, including antidepressants, birth control, and blood thinners. Do not combine with other medicines without checking with a pharmacist or doctor.

Evidence grades describe the strength of published research for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), not a promise of results. Nothing here is medical advice — talk to your clinician before starting anything, especially alongside prescription medication.

Other ways people describe this

Same underlying problem, different words.

These suggestions come from our full page on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), where you can see every option and how it is graded. Evidence grades are explained in our methodology, and every phrasing we cover is listed under health topics.

Remedies people try for this

Remedies recommended for the same conditions. Evidence grades are shown on each page.

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