Tips For Combating Seasonal Depression
During this colder time of year, it’s hard not to catch a little bit of “cabin fever.” The joys of the holidays have slowly come and gone, but the blistering cold keeps us from enjoying some of the things that may normally bring you joy.. If you are anything like me, the claws of seasonal depression start to sink in a little deeper now that I’m not looking towards seasonal gatherings with family. While I do enjoy a fun movie day at home and a break from the summer heat, shorter and colder days really start to take a toll on my mental health after the new year. Here I have compiled 3 tips that may help you during this final push to warmer weather.
1. Get some sunshine
I know it seems a little wild after just talking about being stuck indoors because of the weather, but Vitamin D from the sun can be very helpful when it comes to improving seasonal depression. The good thing is, you can get these benefits from the warmth of your very own home through the use of a therapy light. These lamps can produce the same rays from the sun to lift your mood when the weather prevents you from getting them naturally. I have linked an inexpensive option found on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/sk=mood+lamp+seasonal+depression&crid=3DEQ1927R6DMP&sprefix=mood+la%2Caps%2C112&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa p_2_7#:~:text=Tue%2C%20Feb%207-,Erligpowht%20Light%20Therapy%20Lamp%2C%20UV%2DFree%2010000%20Lux%20Therapy%20Light%2C%20Touch%20Control%20with%203%20Adjustable%20Brightness%20Levels%20and%204%20Timer%20Function%2CLarge%20Light%20Surface%20%26%20Rotatable%20Stand%20for%20Home/Office,-4.5
2. Stay Connected
One of the symptoms that many individuals experience with depression is isolation. This is also true for seasonal depression. It is still pivotal during the colder months of the year to stay connected to your support system either in person or virtually. Plan a coffee date with your friends or family, plan weekly, recurring game nights, or even plan zoom dates where you do these activities virtually. Keep in mind that you may feel the desire to withdraw, but remember that depression can make you think that is the best option when your brain really needs social interaction.
3. Get moving
Whether you bundle up and go for a walk or you do a youtube yoga routine, find ways to get moving. Movement can help your brain and body feel more alert and engaged, giving you more energy and improving your overall positive mood. This doesn’t mean that you have to invest in expensive equipment, you can practice gentle stretching or weight-free programs in your own living room. Find something that works for you and your body. Just remember, any movement is helpful in battling seasonal depression. Remember with all of these tips practice makes progress. We are all working towards improving our mental health, so show yourself, love, when adding these or any new additions to your daily routine. It won’t be perfect at first, so maybe one new habit at a time to begin to build mastery. Over time, you will start to notice the positive benefits of your hard work.
If you have any other tips on how to combat seasonal depression, fire off in the comments. We look forward to hearing from you. If you would like to find support or connect with a therapist connect with our team at www.compasscounseling.com. If you would like to schedule an appointment today click here!
Download our Free E-Book 10 Questions to Ask Before Starting Counseling. Learn more at www.compasscounseling.com If you would like to schedule an appointment today visit our website or call/text 270-777-4490.
Here’s the truth, you are overwhelmed, stuck, and know something has got to change, but asking for help is hard. Most people think that their problems are not big enough for counseling and wait 8 years or more to reach out for help. At Compass Counseling we know that we all have mental health and you want to feel good about yourself and your relationships. Over the past 8 years, we have crafted an excellent team of professionals that have served thousands of people in Western KY and we want to help you on your path to change. Our Master's level therapists will support you and teach you skills to learn to manage the overwhelm and overcome your struggle. When you leave your first session, you will feel confident & ready to start on your path change. Connect with us today at www.compasscouseling.com or schedule an appointment.