With the warm season coming to an end, daylight savings is taking over and the sun is setting even earlier than usual. Mix that with insufferably cold and rainy weather, and then you have a cocktail for seasonal depression. While seasonal depression can be a difficult thing to combat, there are many things you can do to help your mental health during this rough transition period.
- Remain grateful for each and every day
Sometimes when we are in a funk, we tend to forget about the things that make our lives very meaningful. It can be easy to slip through the cracks and always feel like the world has turned against you or that life sucks. However, thinking about the important things in your life can really help that. Sometimes we have to look at ourselves and think, I have a bed to sleep in everyday. I have running water and can take warm showers. I am able to have access to food. Thinking about things like this can really put into perspective how lucky we are and how we should remain grateful for the things we have.
- Think about the good things coming your way
While the winter season may feel dreary and long, it’s important to think about all the good things that are coming your way. This can be as simple as a fresh hot coffee from Starbucks or something bigger such as a holiday of some sort. Needless to say, there are always so many good things that are happening, you just might have to look harder to find them.
- Do something for yourself
During this challenging season, make sure you are doing things for yourself, and not just others. It can be so easy to fall into a people-pleasing habit, and that’s the last thing you’d want to do while dealing with seasonal depression. It’s okay to say ‘no’ to other people and do things for yourself. With that being said, integrate at least 2-3 hours a day into taking care of yourself, whether that be doing your hobbies, self care, hanging out with friends, etc. This will make you more connected to yourself and will help you through combating seasonal depression.
- Take good care of your health
With winter comes so many illnesses including COVID, the flu and your typical run-of-the-mill respiratory issues. With that being said, make sure that you are taking good care of yourself to combat these illnesses. Dress warm in the colder weather, drink plenty of water and stay away from people who are sick. Being sick all the time does not help with seasonal depression and can make you feel trapped in your room. When you feel good physically, you will feel so much better mentally.
- Remain connected to loved ones
This winter season, make sure you are staying connected to loved ones. It’s always important to form strong bonds with individuals, especially when times can get tough. Staying connected can be very easy, as you can always call and Facetime people. Even better, make sure to schedule times where you can hang out with people. This can be something as simple as grabbing a coffee. Staying connected will always be very important, especially during this difficult time
Make sure to stay safe and healthy this winter season and if you do find yourself struggling, there are many resources available. I’ve listed several resources below. Remember, you are never alone.
