Seasonal depression or the "Winter Blues" is something that affects many people, especially in colder climates. This is a state of sluggishness and melancholy where you find yourself just waiting for winter to end. Most times this feeling goes away around April when the weather changes and you start to spend more time outside. Simply waiting for winter to end though is a bad way to deal with this feeling. You will have waited out winter having done or accomplished nothing in that time. To combat this trend it is advisable to find activities to do indoors or out during the winter.
It is important to keep your mind and body active during the winter since seasonal depression can worsen into a clinical depression or seasonal affective disorder. With that in mind we have compiled a list of activities based on what doctors suggest that you should be doing to fight the effects of seasonal depression.
More Sunlight
Nothing is worse than a cold room, then a cold, dark room. Darkness especially during the day can contribute greatly to depression. Natural sunlight makes a big difference to peoples moods. You will feel better without even noticing.
Open your blinds during the day preferably the ones that are facing the sun. Read or preform other activities near a window. Of course the best thing to do is to go outside. If you go somewhere else like school or a coffee shop sit near a window. If all of this fails you can even buy alarm clocks that simulates dawn or a rising sun. Finally, if you are feeling resourceful you could buy "full spectrum" light bulbs which have the same effect as sunlight. If all else fails then take a Vitamin D3 supplement.
Selective Food and Drink
Believe it or not certain food and drink can have a great effect on your mood one way or the other. Most people don't think of changing their diet to avoid depression and probably just eat whatever is available or what they are in the mood for.
First of all the best food you can eat during the winter is something hot. Some type of hot and hearty soup is perfect. Studies show that hot meals increase moral in the workplace and a persons overall mood. Many workplaces now recommend that employees prepare hot meals instead of cold like sandwiches. Chocolate is another food that is widely considered to help improve someone's mood but not other types of candy. Lastly, at this point in the year everyone should turn to their "guilty pleasure" or comfort food. Everyone has that one meal or item that has been their favourite since childhood. Don't be afraid to indulge in it especially if its healthy.
Exercise
Regular exercise as little as 20 minutes a day can make a big difference in your mental health, not to mention physical. Studies show that exercise done under bright lights or natural light can even reverse the effects of depression.
For people that always wanted to take up Yoga then this is your opportunity. For people that already know yoga, this is the perfect exercise to do inside during the winter. Other similar exercises include Tai Chi and Pilates. You could also invest in a stationary bicycle. Try finding one second-hand if possible to save a few dollars. Using some light weights while you are watching TV or taking some time out and doing a few sets at a time is good too.
Time to Yourself
Everyone at some point can get overwhelmed by life. Too much work. Too many people needing to see you. You can get burnt out and not realize it until its too late. During the long winter months this can be even worse so its important to sometimes take time to yourself.
If you really want to take some time to yourself to recharge then you have to turn yourself off from the rest of the world. Cancel your plans, turn off your phone and sequester yourself in your house or room. People all have a favourite way of relaxing. Different things you could do are read, write, watch a movie, listen to some new music or even take a nap.
Take Up a Winter Sport/Hobby
This is possibly the best things anyone could do for themselves during the winter. This can get you exercise, sunlight and give you something to do. Of course most sports and hobbies are geared towards the warmer months but you need to get creative if you are going to find something in the winter.
Hobbies that will get you outside and moving could be skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow-shoeing or curling. If you are not keen on doing anything outdoors then you could try darts or billiards. Men could also take advantage of the season by taking up photography. Snow covered trees make great photos.
Volunteer
The winter months also have a some major holidays that take place including Christmas, Thanksgiving and Easter. Many times people that are in desperate need are forgotten because we are so busy with family which is understandable. If you talk to a volunteer organization or someone who is actually volunteering somewhere like a soup kitchen they will tell you that they are always looking for people to volunteer.
Volunteering may not seem like you are doing something for yourself and your own well being but you will actually be helping yourself greatly. Doing something good for someone less fortunate will give you a feeling of self worth and accomplishment. Furthermore, the people you help will be grateful for your help. This goes to the very heart of depression by giving someone struggling with mental health issues more self satisfaction. It is also a great way to meet new people.
Clean/Redecorate Your Home
Many people wait for spring to clean and organize their home which is why its called "spring cleaning" but during the winter may be a better time to do it. Being cooped up in your home is the perfect time to do housework.
Going through your home and deciding what you should keep or not is something everybody should be doing regularly. You can quickly be overwhelmed by your possessions if you don't stay organized. Decide what to keep, what to throw out and what to donate. After that you can go around and clean everything.
Vacation
Winter is probably the best time for someone to vacation to a warmer climate. Not everyone can afford to take a vacation but if you can then this is the time to do it.
Taking a vacation to a warm climate will address many of the issues that cause seasonal depression. Sun, warmth, time to yourself, new surroundings and new activities. If this isn't possible then you can always go on a road trip to another city. There are many new things to do in a completely different city especially one you haven't been to before. Take in a show or a concert while you are there.
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