Mental Health Update: Dealing With Seasonal Depression

Happy Sunday everyone! Today I wanted to talk about mental health and dealing with seasonal depression. In the past, every winter my depression has gotten a lot worse. When I moved to a sunnier state, winter was a lot easier for me, but I still struggle sometimes. 

There's just something about darker, shorter days along with the cold and snow that keeps you inside and more isolated than usual. Every winter I have to deal with being even more exhausted than usual, taking longer naps, and just having my energy level crash. It really sucks, but I have learned a few tips and tricks to help me get through the winter. Here they are!

1. Get a S.A.D. light. It's a bright light made specially for dealing with seasonal depression. You turn it on for a few hours each day and I usually color or read by mine. It helps your brain think that there's sun and warmth and it really does improve your mood. I highly recommend investing in one.

2. Keep your home brightly lit and cozy. Have candles lit, fairy lights on, make sure you're warm enough, and just try to enjoy the coziness rather than the cold. 

3. Get outside on sunny days! Even if it's freezing out, bundle up, and soak in some of that Vitamin D!

4. Work out a bit each day. Even if it's for 10 minutes! Try and get some endorphins running, it'll make you feel better. 

5. Adjust your sleep schedule so you get as much as you need. It's okay to be less energetic and more tired. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly. 

Those are some of my tips! I hope it helps anyone who's going through this. And just remember, winter doesn't last forever, it'll be spring soon! I hope y'all are doing great and I'll see ya tomorrow!

Alette