Each year, when the temperature starts to drop, your mood and energy levels start to show the same pattern.
The fall and winter months mean that it’s not only colder, but it’s also darker outside with less sunlight. As you layer up on clothes to keep warm, you can’t help but feel like oyu’re doing the same with the internal battle you’re facing.
It’s like when you’re getting dressed in the morning, you’re also putting on a mask to hide how you’re really feeling. Seasonal depression is something that a lot of people struggle with during the fall and winter seasons.
Even though it’s common, it doesn’t mean that people who are impacted by seasonal depression just have to sit back and wait for spring to come. This is how to help seasonal depression.
Get Outside
During the fall and winter months, you may want to stay inside and bundle up to avoid the cold weather. It’s important to get as much natural sunlight as you can during these months. The sun isn’t out as long compared to spring and summer. It’s important to soak in as much sunlight as you can. Try to go on a walk in the morning or during your lunch break.
You can also open the windows at home or in your office so you can multitask by working and soaking up the sun. If you’re unable to get outside as much as you would like, you can also invest in a light box to mimic sunlight in your home.
Take Care of Yourself
You can work to make yourself feel better from the inside out just by taking care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating healthy, nutritious, and well-balanced meals during your day. This means that you’re fueling your body with foods that are filled with a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It also means that you’re drinking enough water and limiting the amount of unhealthy foods that you’re consuming.
Taking care of yourself also means getting enough sleep. You should be aiming for at least eight hours of sleep each and every night so that your body and brain can perform to the best of their ability. Last but not least: find ways to move your body. Exercise is important for one’s physical health, but it’s equally as important for one’s emotional and mental health. Moving your body can naturally reduce stress levels and improve one’s mood.
Lean On Your Loved Ones
Depression can cause you to isolate and withdraw from loved ones. The cold weather can also cause you to do the same. You may not want to get ready and head out when the weather isn’t ideal. Staying inside and cuddling up in a blanket may feel like a better option. Try not to do this as it can lead to worsening signs and symptoms. While everything is fine in moderation, try to push yourself out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there. Make plans to leave the comfort of your own home and hang out with your friends and family.
Talk to Someone
If you’re struggling with seasonal depression, some of these lifestyle changes could help to reduce some of the signs and symptoms that you’re experiencing. This may be enough for some individuals to manage the impact of seasonal depression. Others may require additional support. If you’re starting to notice that your seasonal depression is impacting your daily life and routine, it’s a good sign that reaching out for help may be needed.
A therapist can help you work through what’s actually causing you to feel this way and prep you with the necessary tools to better manage it moving forward. Reach out to us today to learn more about depression treatment and how we can help you navigate this season.
