What to do about the winter blues

Sometimes depression symptoms can have a seasonal pattern. Often, mood symptoms can worsen during the fall and winter months likely due to a combination of shorter days and changes in lifestyle. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is depression that has a seasonal pattern.

Some ways to feel better:

1. Seize the daylight! Try to get outside during the daylight hours as much as possible. Take a walk at lunch during the week and bundle up to get outside on the weekends.

2. Get moving. Find activities you enjoy to keep you physically active.

3. Sleep. Shorter days can throw off circadian rhythms. Make sure to keep consistent bedtimes and wake times so you get high-quality rest.

4. Eat high-quality foods. Colder weather means fewer seasonal fruits and veggies and so it can take extra work and planning to choose high-quality fuel for your mind and body.
    

If you are continuing to struggle with low mood, consider talking with your doctor about treatment options.