Winter Blues: Winter Plans

On January 2, 2022

Winter Blues: Winter Plans

Winter is here and so are the Winter Blues for some.

Winter is a difficult time of year for many with shorter days and colder temperatures. Many people feel extra fatigue, irritability, and trouble with motivation in the heart of winter. Living in Chicagoland at times we have weeks on end below freezing and stretches of time where no one wants to leave their homes. This can lead to the Winter Blues, and we can create a plan to help!

It is important to note that individuals with more severe symptoms of depression may have Seasonal Affective Disorder or Major Depressive Disorder and if your symptoms are more severe, it is important that you talk with your doctor or therapist about your symptoms.

To help with Winter Blues:

Limit the TV:

Limit your time watching the news or overall screen time and find other ways to entertain yourself, such as reading a book (maybe about warmer weather), trying a new recipe, doing a hobby, playing a card or board game, or crafting.

Eat Healthy, quality food:

It is important to get Vitamin D and other nutrients in the winter. Eating fruit, vegetables, and an overall balanced diet can improve our mood.

Get in some Sunshine:

On a day with sunshine be sure to get outside and soak in the sun (think lunchtime walk), or open the curtains and let in the light.

Get Sleep:

It is important to keep your regular sleep schedule.

Get movement:

As it is all year, movement is important to our emotional health so lets start moving indoors or out!

Talk with others:

Reach out to others – call an old friend or family member and get connected with others during this time.

Change the Ambiance:

Make your space comfortable, and listen to music to change the mood.

Help others:

Reaching out to help others can lift our spirits.

Hopefully we can all get through the Winter Blues and into a Happy and Healthy 2022!

-Jennifer Parks, PsyD

About The Author

Dr. Jennifer Parks

Related Posts

News & Updates

Subscribe to our Newsletter for future updates!