Surviving Winter Blues: My Journey with Seasonal Affective Disorder

Winter has always been a challenging season for me. Growing up in Detroit, MI, I’ve had my fair share of snowy roads and gray skies. Even with my trusty Jeep Wrangler, Blueberry, making me feel safe on snowy drives, the stress of winter never goes away. It’s not just the cold or the shorter days—it’s the heaviness I feel. I didn’t fully understand it until I came across the term Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Suddenly, everything clicked, and I realized I wasn’t alone and that there were ways to manage it.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by depression that occurs at the same time every year. It’s most common during the winter months in climates with reduced sunlight. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms can include:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Hopelessness
• Social withdrawal

Fortunately, there are treatments like light therapy, talk therapy, and medication that can help. But beyond that, there are everyday steps we can take to make winter more manageable.

Why Winter Feels So Tough

Winter isn’t all bad. The changing leaves, brisk air, and snow-covered trees can be beautiful. Plus, the absence of bugs is a definite win! But the shorter daylight hours and constant gray skies can take a toll. For me, that’s the hardest part—the lack of sunlight and the energy it brings.

We can prepare for winter with scarves, gloves, boots, and coats. But preparing for fewer hours of daylight requires a different approach. Here’s how I manage my experience with SAD:

Things to Do to Push Through Seasonal Affective Disorder

1. Exercise: Moving your body releases endorphins and boosts your mood.
2. Read a book: Escape into a good story to lift your spirits.
3. Watch a comedy: Laughter truly is the best medicine.
4. Light a candle: Cozy up your space with warm scents.
5. Take a bath or shower: Relax and reset.
6. Do a puzzle: Engage your mind with a fun challenge.
7. Listen to music: Create a playlist of uplifting tunes.
8. Phone a confidante: Talk it out with someone you trust.
9. Pray or meditate: Connect with your faith and find peace.
10. Read the Bible: Seek encouragement and guidance.
11. Get a sunlight lamp: Mimic natural sunlight to boost your energy.
12. Sing and dance: Let loose and have fun in your room.
13. Get a massage: Release tension and stress.
14. Visit a Rage Room: Let out your frustrations in a safe environment.
15. Eat fruit and drink water: Nourish your body with healthy choices.
16. Write down 3 things to be thankful for daily: Focus on gratitude.
17. Surround yourself with positivity: Visit Get Posi for affirmational goods.
18. Dress up: Put on your favorite outfit or cozy socks to feel good.
19. Stretch or do yoga: Ease tension and improve flexibility.
20. Get your hair done: A fresh look can boost your mood.
21. Be reflective: Journal your thoughts and feelings.
22. Cry and decompress: Allow yourself to feel and release emotions.
23. Try a coloring or word search book: Relax your mind with simple activities.
24. Consider Vitamin D supplements: Support your body’s needs.
25. If your budget allows, planning a sunny winter vacation can make a big difference. My recent trip to Panama was a game-changer. I never took a sunny trip in the winter before, and this winter has been less challenging for me because of it- I know it. Securing a yearly December trip in the sun is in my Winter Wellness Action Plan. What's in yours? 

Winter Wellness Action Plan

Winter can be tough, but there are ways to push through. Please don’t lay down or sleep all day, and don’t try to escape your thoughts and feelings. Instead, take action. You’ve already survived 100% of your worst days, and you will get through this too.

What will you try to help you manage the winter blues? Share your thoughts in the comments, and if you’re looking for positivity boosters, check out Get Posi for affirmational goods to brighten your day!

Peace and posi,

p