Before you start taking pills, research natural ways to beat seasonal depression. Jennifer Gershman, PharmD, CPh. recommends tyrosine, melatonin, and St. John’s Wort – in addition to 5-HTP (via Pharmacy Times). For example, tyrosine stimulates the production of dopamine, adrenaline and norepinephrine in the brain, which makes it easier to manage stress. Melatonin, the sleep hormone, regulates your internal clock. St. John’s Wort supports emotional and mental health, says Gershman. She also suggests taking S-adenosyl-methionine (SAM-e), a dietary supplement that keeps your nervous system functioning properly.

However, none of these products are a miracle cure. They may work for some people, but not for others. You may also need to change your lifestyle to put yourself in a better mood and beat the blues. “It is best to prepare for the winter season by starting in the fall – by doing enjoyable activities, initiating discussions and group outings with friends, choosing fun hobbies and engaging in clubs or community services, ”psychologist Kim Burgess, Ph.D. told Everyday Health. Stay active, get plenty of vitamin D, and spend more ‘me’ time on your schedule.

For example, exercise is clinically proven to prevent depression, according to researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital. After analyzing the effects of physical activity on nearly 8,000 people, scientists have found that exercising as little as 35 minutes a day can reduce the risk of depression. What’s more, even those who are genetically predisposed to this condition may be able to prevent it through regular exercise.