Tackling seasonal depression

It has been a cold stretch in Alberta, with extreme temperatures keeping most of us (who are able) inside and hunkered down out of the cold. The cold days are short. The nights are long. And the mood? Well…it’s just bleh. 

We all have random days where the weather gets us down and we feel uninspired and struggle to find motivation to be productive. But for some, the winter weather can take a deeper toll on our mental health. 

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is also known as the winter blues. Typically it hits during fall and winter when daylight hours are shorter. Right now, the sun isn’t rising until close to 9 am and it has set before 4:20 pm. That’s less than eight hours of daylight. That reduced exposure to natural sunlight can impact your internal clock and bring your mental health into a state of depression. 

Not sure if you have SAD or if you’re just having a blah day? If you’re irritable, feeling overly tired, are having trouble concentrating and are not interested in hobbies or activities that previously brought you joy, those might be signs that you have the winter blues. Stepping back from social activities is another indicator. 

How do I feel better?

One of the primary treatments for SAD is light therapy, where you sit in front of a lamp that mimics natural sunlight. It helps regulate your body and improve your mood. 

Counsellors at Some Other Solutions can also support with cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). Through conversations, counsellors can help you address negative thought patterns and coping strategies to help you make it through a long winter. 

But first? Start with a call to your family doctor to learn more and ask questions. Together with the right support, you can beat the winter blues.