Warding off winter weariness

Wintertime is here again, and while many of us know November and December to be full of joy and cheer from the holiday spirit, we are all inevitably faced with what happens after the glistening affairs are over, the final wrapping paper is crumpled and tossed aside, the twinkling lights are taken down and stored away for next year’s illumination.

Everything after the holidays can seem a bit duller, and if this sounds all too familiar, just know that you are not alone. Many of us feel a weighing emotion after Christmas and New Year’s Day arrive and pass. We have set too many unrealistic resolutions and just can’t seem to wrap our heads around the fact a whole another year has zoomed by. Or, we may being feeling a little bit low, even a bit sad.

Then there’s seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of mild-to-moderate depression that descends in the fall or winter months (with corresponding lack of daylight) and fades in spring. Believe it or not, many of us experience this SAD or seasonal depression and don’t even realize it. Studies show that SAD can cause:

· Lower energy

· Increase in sadness

· Sleeping more

· Loss of interest in activities

· Craving carbohydrates

Seasonal depression can get the best of us, especially when returning to school after a long winter break and trying to get back on track with the grind. So, here at the Advocate we have thought of some ways to combat the blues and get back to feeling like you. Some new activities you might want to try are:

~ Exercising more regularly or hiking (especially in our beautiful Columbia Gorge)

~ Reading a new book (reading can transport you to a whole new world and is a great escape)

~ Take a hot bath (grab some bubbles and your favorite drink and sink into the warmth)

~ Use a light box to catch some rays (UV rays have been shown to boost serotonin)

Try to make the best of the winter (look out for fun new seasonal activities)

~ Take your vitamins! (Vitamin D is essential, and we lose a lot during the winter)

Many of these activities can help fight seasonal depression and help enlighten your life. The most important thing to do is to stay aware of your emotional and mental health and to stay as happy and healthy as possible. Remember, springtime is on its way!

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Worth noting, at the end of the day if none of these practices seem to help, try connecting with some of our MHCC resources. Contact MHCC at [email protected] for more information on mental or physical health assistance, social services, and other help from community support groups or agencies.