While the weather outside is frightful, it can feel nearly impossible to find inner warmth and positivity during the remaining (and slow) months of winter. Dark nights and freezing temperatures have been shown to lead to a significant decline in mood. That’s why it’s important to be proactive in beating the winter blues and finding ways to lift your spirits until spring arrives.
TL; DR — your mental health is important. Here are some tips to help you navigate seasonal depression and enter spring with a newfound sense of self.
Prioritize self-care habits
Between your studies and your personal life, it may feel like there’s no time for yourself. During the winter months, make self-care a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.
It’s important to note that self-care looks different for different people. For some, self-care is hunkering down indoors with a steaming mug of hot cocoa. For others, it’s a face mask and a green juice. And, for many, it’s settling down for an exceptionally long winter nap.
Whatever self-care means to you, set aside intentional time for activities that recharge you to give yourself a much-needed break and boost your mood.
Let the light in
With shorter days, soaking up sunlight can be a challenge — but it’s worth the effort for your mental health.
Get outside whenever you get the chance. Go for a quick walk, take a phone call outside, etc. And if you’re cooped up in an office all day, consider utilizing light therapy. Light therapy boxes mimic natural sunlight and are a common treatment for seasonal affective disorder (e.g., “sitting near a light box for 20-30 minutes each morning”).
Move your body
Regular exercise is known to decrease depression and anxiety. Movement will release endorphins — feel-good chemicals. It’s important to find a form of exercise that is enjoyable for you, whether it be running, yoga, tai chi, or simply dancing it out in your living room.
Finding motivation to move when it’s cold outside can be tough, but even small bursts of activity — like stretching or a short walk — can make a big difference.
Consult a professional
And perhaps the most important tip of all — talk to your doctor. While it’s important to incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine during the frosty winter months, it’s beneficial to consult a professional.
While healthy habits help, they may not replace therapy or medication. If you’re struggling, seeking professional support is the best step forward.
At Goodwin University, we start with you. We strive to provide our students with the best educational experience by providing both personal and academic support services, including free mental health counseling for students. Learn more today!
Grace Kuraska is a marketing content writer at Goodwin University where she combines her passion for creativity and storytelling to craft engaging content that resonates with readers. She graduated from University of Connecticut, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Sociology. Grace brings years of experience in writing, editing, and proofreading to craft compelling narratives that connect with audiences and inspire action.