Daylight savings is arguably the worst part of the colder months. The days are shorter and colder, and you might find yourself lacking motivation to do just about anything. However, some people are more emotionally affected by the change than others. These people may be struggling with seasonal affective disorder, also known as S.A.D. Or, more commonly referred to as “seasonal depression.” Seasonal depression is when people’s moods are affected by the change in weather, and they may exhibit symptoms associated with other depressive disorders. The good news is that there has been immense research done on S.A.D. and how you can combat it. Here are some tips on making the winter more bearable.
Prioritize social activities!
It’s easy to look outside your window at the gloomy winter landscape and want to stay at home. Although tempting, making an effort to connect with others can help relieve your feelings of isolation. Grab a cup of coffee, go for a drive, and if you really feel like you cannot get out of the house, FaceTime or Skype work too.
Keep consistency in your life
While many of us have a busy and unpredictable schedule, any bit of consistency can help alleviate symptoms of seasonal depression. Maybe this is going to sleep around the same time each night or eating at consistent times; this aspect of consistency will look different for everyone.
Stay active
This can be tough in the winter, as not everyone is jumping to get outside when it’s cold. Bundling up and going for a walk around the block can be extremely beneficial for your mental health, especially just to get some natural vitamin D. If going outside is not in the cards for you, try doing an at-home workout or maybe going on the treadmill if you have access to one.
Consider taking Vitamin D
People who are diagnosed with S.A.D. often have a vitamin D. deficiency. This is due to insufficient dietary intake or a lack of sunlight exposure. If you feel that this supplement may help you, consider talking to your doctor. In addition to taking the supplement, try to eat foods naturally rich in vitamin D., such as dairy products fortified with the mineral, orange juice, salmon, eggs, and most fatty fish (trout, tuna, etc.).
Reach out for help
Lastly, and most importantly, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. The task can feel daunting, but just know that there are so many people and resources offering support. In fact, we have many resources here at Hunterdon Central. Each class has grade-level counselors, a student assistance counselor, a school nurse, and more offering help. Specific contact information can be found under the ‘Counseling’ tab on our school website. There are also many other online sources, such as the one linked below, with important information and coping techniques.
Resources
HCRHS website: https://www.hcrhs.org/
Online source: https://www.everydayhealth.com/depression/treatment/ways-to-ease-seasonal-depression/
