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” occasionally. According to the National Institutes of Health, winter blues typically last a short period. They may be triggered by specific occurrences such as holiday stress, reminders of absent loved ones or the end of a festive period.
TIPS TO HELP AVOID OR COPE WITH THE WINTER BLUES:
• 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 and 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. • Reposition your furniture to ensure windows are not blocked so you can receive the maximum natural light in your home or consider purchasing a sun lamp.
• Brighten your home and workspace by removing drapes from windows, painting walls brighter colors or installing brighter light bulbs, if possible. • Stay warm. Turn up the heat, use electric blankets or enjoy soothing warm drinks like tea. • 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 get in touch with the National Suicide Hotline at 988 (text or call) to be connected to a trained crisis specialist.
About Syntero Syntero, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that advocates and supports the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities by providing professional, compassionate expert counseling and community-based services that adapt to the community’s changing needs. Syntero has served Central Ohio for over 40 years and has offices in Dublin, Hilliard, Lewis Center and Mount Gilead. Programs and services are offered throughout Franklin, Delaware and Morrow Counties.
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Healthy Winter/Spring 2024
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