Mental Health During the Winter

We’re approaching the end of December, which brings with it the least amount of light and an abundance of cold. When seasons change, there can be unforeseen effects on our moods and mental health. Some people struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder, a mood disorder characterized by heightened depression at specific times of the year in a consistent pattern. Others struggle with changes in their mood to a slightly lesser extent, but the impact can still be profound. We don’t always recognize these changes, but when we do, we can work towards understanding how to best help ourselves.

One factor in these mood changes is less sunlight throughout the day and less time out in the sun. Sunlight contains Vitamin D, which has been linked to improving mood. One important way we can improve our mental health is trying to still get outside for a walk or other activity. Exercise is important in regulating our mood and the extra sunlight can give us a boost as well. Some people also see their doctor to consider vitamin supplements if they feel that as a good course of treatment. When we get enough Vitamin D, sunlight, and time outside, we give ourselves a chance to still feel like our balanced, grounded selves. 

Another impact of the winter is that the weather can keep us from our regular routines. Sometimes the rain and frost can keep us from doing our morning run, and if we’re able to adapt these routines, we can keep the benefits that we gain from exercise. During the winter, some people get a temporary gym membership, switch to yoga or pilates indoors, or use a stationary bike. Exercise is helpful for nearly all mental health challenges, which means keeping it in our lives in some aspect is hugely beneficial.

With the winter season comes an increase in cold, flu, and other illnesses that can change how we live. Perhaps you have a child too sick to attend daycare, so you’re at home trying to get work done but you’re unable to focus due to your child’s needs. Or maybe you’re a student too sick to go to school, so you end up with make-up work and a surprise test that increases your stress levels. Sometimes when things like illness happen outside of our control, we can find ways to take care of ourselves that are within our control. Maybe we need to call out sick to work to take care of our cold and use that time to drink tea, get rest, and eat some soup. Perhaps we need to give ourselves grace that while we have a sick kid at home, our focus for work will not be at its peak. 

Winter can impact our mental health in a lot of ways, but if we work to be flexible, give ourselves grace, and try to incorporate sunshine and exercise, we can make strides towards improving our mood.