I would describe seasonal depression as the long stretch of time in between the holidays and the first 70 degree day in May.
It’s like a big bubble of sadness because the sun does a lot of ghosting. During this time it’s typically too cold to really enjoy outdoor activities. Most of us are locked up in our homes binging our favorite shows.
It is quite literally called S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder) for a reason.
I know there’s a more medical and accurate definition for it, but that is exactly what it feels like. S.A.D. feels like depressive episodes and hopelessness. Unfortunately it’s something to ride out until the sun makes a more regular appearance for the season.
For a more medical description, check out this link. But my guess it that you’re not here for medical terms and descriptions. You’re here because you want to know how to kick that annoying seasonal depression in the butt. Or at least, how to prevent it as much as possible.
I’m your girl for that. I’ve created a list of tips that have worked for me the past couple of years. I got your back bestie!
Tips For Seasonal Depression
Moving: Sometimes simplicity is the best thing for the body. I try to make sure I get up and move whenever I feel that sadness coming on. Whether it is exercising, going for a walk or having a dance party in my apartment by myself. It’s important to shake that sadness away.
Organization: Nothing makes me feel more on top of things than staying organized. Staying organized looks so many different way, but I love having a clutter-free space. I notice whenever my kitchen and living room are messy, my mind feels overwhelmed as well. I dedicate Sundays to re-organizing my space, writing in my planner/ prayer journal and meal prepping. Something about planning and organizing puts me in the right headspace for the next week ahead.
Projects: A huge word of advice, stay busy with projects! This is a win-win because not only does it keep your mind occupied, but it allows you to make progress towards your goals. I started this blog in November 2021 as a seasonal depression project. I knew I wanted to start blogging again, but I figured I could work on it all winter long to keep myself busy. So far, it’s been a game changer for two years now.
Socialize: This can be hard because we tend to self-isolate when we feel depressed. But spending time with people helps you feel a stronger sense of well-being and helps with loneliness. Oxytocin releases when we engage in social behaviors. Which is why we get that lovey-dovey feel good high after being around friends and family.
Self-Care and S.A.D.
Vitamins: Tiny, yet fierce. Vitamins have played a vital part of helping me feel my best mentally, emotionally and physically. I have an iron deficiency that I’ve had since I was younger. For some reason, in the colder months, I get really dizzy and fatigued without the help of iron pills. Not to mention, the sun is ghosting us, right? Being stuck in the house feeling tired and gloomy is the last thing we need. Vitamin D also helps with feeling less fatigued and because we don’t get as much natural vitamin D in the winter, it helps to take some.
Ashwagandha is that girl. If you’re an anxious, stressed out mess, you need these babies. Ashwagandha is known for helping with stress relief and anxiety. I’ve been taking them for a little less than a month and I’ve already noticed a significant shift in my sleep patterns and anxiety.
Sleep: I’ve learned that my sleep habits directly correlate with my mental health. If I am sleep deprived, I’m usually mentally foggy. With that being said, giving yourself an adult bedtime is necessary. Being sleep deprived has caused me to feel fatigued, of course, but it has enabled negative thinking. I can’t tell you how many sleep deprived days I’ve sat at my work desk thinking, “this is the best it’s ever going to get.” Those thoughts weren’t my own. But when we are sleep deprived and not on our stuff, we leave space for negative thoughts to creep in.
Citrus: Using citrus in any way is beneficial for several reasons. I like to spray citrus sprays or use essential oils around my home. Eating oranges also helps because the Vitamin C lowers the stress hormone cortisol. My favorite citrus spray is Sunshine Mimosa by B&BW!
The Light
At this point, most people would probably recommend getting some type of seasonal depression lamp. But my last tip to help with seasonal depression is another kind of light. That light is God. Before all else fails, establish a relationship with the one who knows you best and can heal your heart. He is Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals. The winter months may feel like a storm. If you’re having trouble trusting God in that storm, I recommend reading my post here.
Seasonal depression has a light at the end of the tunnel. It is only for a season. A bible verse that I love is Ecclesiastes 3.
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:….
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh
Ecclesiastes 3:1 , Ecclesiastes 3:4
It’s just a season. Hang in there bestie. 💕
