Tips for Avoiding Winter Blues

At this time of year, it’s very easy to start feeling down. The nights are darker, it’s colder, and you probably just want to stay in bed all day. Well, that’s pretty normal. In fact, Seasonal Affective Disorder is a real thing that a lot of people are affected by during the winter months, a feeling of sadness related to the shortening of daylight hours.

However, there are ways to help beat that feeling of sadness, getting you through the next few months without feeling too down!

• Keep active. It can be so tempting to just snuggle up in bed on an evening and never leave the house, but that’ll just leave you feeling worse. The best thing you can do is keep moving. Not only will exercise release endorphins that make you feel happier but just getting up and staying busy can do wonders.
• Eat well. When it’s cold, all you want to do is drink litres of hot chocolate and open up the tin of Roses you’ve been saving for Christmas, but try to beat those cravings as best as you can. Of course, it’s fine to have comfort food from time to time, but don’t forget about the importance of eating fruit and veg. A healthy diet will boost your energy levels and leave you feeling fab.
• Socialise! If you’re feeling down, arrange to meet up with friends and family. Socialising is good for your mental health, ensuring that you don’t feel too lonely during the winter months. However, it’s also important to share how you’re feeling with others. Talking to someone about how you’re feeling could help, and chances are they’re probably feeling similar too.
• Seek help. If this is more than just the winter blues, and you’re starting to feel really down all of the time, make sure you seek help. Book an appointment with your GP and see if they can help. Even just talking with a professional may be the boost you need to get back on track.

Remember, you’re not alone. You can beat the winter blues!