TIPS TO HELP MANAGE THE “WINTER BLUES”
As the seasons change and the days become shorter, some people feel the need to slow down while others may experience a more significant disturbance in their daily routine and motivation. Seasonal Affective Disorder, a mood disorder associated with depressive episodes and related to seasonal variations of light, affects approximately 6% of the population and is more common in adults ages 20-50, according to Penn State. However, many people of all ages experience the “winter blues” from time to time. According to the National Institutes of Health, winter blues typically last a short period of time and may be triggered by specific occurrences such as holiday stress, reminders of absent loved ones or the end of a festive period.
• Pre-emptively think about things you like to do during the winter months and plan an activity calendar that includes those activities. • Make plans to spend time with family and friends throughout the season, but also set boundaries. Avoid overextending yourself, and politely decline invitations to outings if you feel overwhelmed. • Spend time outdoors, which can boost your Vitamin D intake, even on overcast days. • Stay warm. Turn up the heat, use electric blankets or enjoy soothing warm drinks, such as tea. TIPS TO HELP AVOID OR COPE WITH THE WINTER BLUES:
• Reposition your furniture to ensure windows are not blocked so you can receive the maximum amount of natural light in your home or consider purchasing a sun lamp. • Brighten your home and workspace by removing drapes from window, painting walls brighter colors or installing brighter light bulbs, if possible. • Exercise regularly to help boost your mood throughout the day. • Modify your diet. Eat more complex carbohydrates like fruits and nuts and avoid simple carbs like cookies and sugary drinks.
If you have lasting feelings of the “winter blues,” share your thoughts with someone you trust or seek professional help. If you or a loved one are in crisis and need immediate assistance, please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 988 (text or call) to be connected to a trained crisis specialist.
FOREVER DUBLIN
Dublin is a Great Place to Enjoy Every Stage of Your Life! Dublin residents who are 55+ want to stay in their hometown and in their own home for as long as possible. That’s what Forever Dublin wants, too! We put together resources for you to get engaged, stay involved and access the support you may need today and tomorrow. The City of Dublin has partnered with Syntero to provide The Forever Dublin Hub located inside the Dublin Syntero offices at 299 Cramer Creek Ct.. Beth Baker, the Aging in Place Navigator with The Hub, assists individuals, families and caregivers to navigate private, government and local agencies for referrals and resources that are key to aging in place.
Forever Dublin also offers educational events and you may register or view archived presentations by visiting ForeverDublin.com/events. For more information about Forever Dublin you may contact Beth at 614.940.3053 or ebaker@syntero.org.
67
DublinOhioUSA.gov/Recreation-Services
Dublin Programs & Activities
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs