Combating Depression In The Winter
If you live a place where the winters are cold and dark, chances are that you experience some form of depression during the dead of winter. For some people, this is the result of a clinical condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder, in which the lack of light during the winter months causes symptoms of depression that are not present during the rest of the year
For people who have S. A. D., the symptoms are far more severe. But most of experience some kind of mood change during the winter. We tend to feel lazier, and want to sleep more. Because it is cold outside, we stay in the house most of the time. We crave comfort foods, which tend to be starchier and higher in fat than the things we eat during other times of year.
When all these factors combine, it is not surprising that we experience a bit of depression. Being cooped up inside make us feel trapped and isolated. It is essential to find ways to fight these feelings. Here are a few ideas for activities that can help.
Take Up A New Hobby
Is there an instrument that you’ve always wanted to learn to play? Did you buy an Alvarez acoustic guitar a year ago, but still haven’t gotten around to learning to play? Buy an instructional CD and get started! Winter is a wonderful time to begin on the hobbies you’ve been putting off. If you’ve always wanted to paint, buy some supplies and just do it! Make wise use of your time at home.
Get Out Of the House
Simply leaving your house or apartment can completely change your mood. You could go see a movie, go out to dinner or brunch with a friend, or go shopping. You could make a day of searching for the perfect pair of leather brown boots, or just sit with someone for a few hours in a coffee shop. The simple act of leaving the house and changing your scenery can make things seem better and more promising.
Get Some Exercise
There is nothing like exercise as an antidote for depression. The chemicals that your body releases during exercise lift your mood all on their own. Even if it is too cold to go out for a walk or jog, you can find many ways to work out. Find a video that has an aerobic or muscle workout routine you can do at home. Join a gym if you have the money to do it. There are lots of ways to get exercise.
Winter may seem dark, cold, and endless, but with a little bit of effort, you can definitely fight the ‘winter blahs.’ Distract yourself long enough with these activities, and suddenly, you will look up and it will be spring!