Winter isn’t just coming, it’s here and for people who might as well be solar powered, it’s a time when the winter blues hit hard and heavy. In the beginning, when the holiday lights are twinkling and family and friends are running in and out, winter doesn’t seem that bad. But when the holidays are over, things return to normal, and the snow is nothing but slush on the ground, depression can set in for many people.
Luckily, there are ways that you can deal with the winter blues in a healthy manner and come out on top when the spring flowers start to bloom. With that in mind, read on below for a few tips to help you deal with the winter blues the right way.
Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
One of the worst things you can do when the blues hit is turn to drugs or alcohol when you are depressed. Drugs and alcohol only make the situation worse and soon you find yourself with a new problem you didn’t have before. If you have a drug or alcohol addiction already, and feel yourself falling off the wagon, the professionals at treatment centers like Windward Way provide comprehensive programs to recover from substance abuse issues.
Declutter Your Space
Staying busy during the winter is something everyone should do and decluttering your space will certainly help you do that. The last thing you want is for your home or garage to get cluttered and crowded because that can contribute to your depression. To avoid these feelings, make a goal to declutter one room a day and when that’s done, declutter the attic or the basement. There are plenty of ideas out there for fixing up your garage as well to keep your mind and your hands busy when you have the winter blues.
Purchase a SAD Lamp
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a very real condition that affects people in the cold winter months when the sun sets sooner and it is dark longer. One way to combat that depression is by purchasing a SAD lamp to brighten your home and chase away those winter blues. Not only does this work to brighten your home, but it is also said to brighten people’s moods as well.
Stay Active
While it may be tempting to stay indoors, curl up under a blanket on the couch, and watch Netflix all day during the cold months of the year, if you are going to defeat the winter blues, you need to do the exact opposite. This isn’t to say that you can’t enjoy some days cuddled on the couch binging your favorite shows, but you do need to stay active by getting out and being social. Go to lunch with friends, try out the new ice skating rink, or head out to a movie with the family, anything to keep you social and active, instead of cooped up all winter long.
These are just a few of the top tips out there for beating the winter blues this cold winter season. Remember, stay active and don’t imbibe and you will get through the winter just fine!
