The Winter Blues is a term used to describe a type of depression that can occur during winter months. You may feel more sluggish, discouraged, and low than normal. This is usually brought about by a combination of several factors, including reduced sunlight exposure and colder weather. However, what can start out as a mild mood change can quickly become more severe, leading to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. In this blog, we are going to discuss tips from a depression counselor in Atlanta, GA on how to overcome the winter blues.
Recognizing the Winter Blues
The first step that is most helpful to overcome the winter blues is to recognize if you are feeling depressed. This can look different for different people but can include feelings of low energy, lack of interest in activities that you once enjoyed, sadness and/or irritability, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and changes in appetite. If you find yourself experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk to someone about how you are feeling. A depression counselor can help you determine if the winter blues have become more severe, help you create a plan for coping, and provide support and guidance.
Exercise Can Help
I’m sure you may have heard this before but exercise can help with the depression that the winter blues brings. Regular exercise helps to improve energy levels, creates endorphins in your body which are associated with feeling good, and can help reduce stress. For example, it doesn’t have to be anything too strenuous. Taking a brisk walk or a light jog can do wonders. Even if it’s just 15 minutes every day, that can work wonders in improving your energy and mood throughout the day.
Going Outside and Enjoying Nature
Another great way to combat the winter blues is to go outside and enjoy nature. Being outdoors can help reduce stress. It may be cold and dark at times where you are, but even a brief walk in the park or walking your dog can be beneficial. However, when the sun is out, it’s important to take advantage of that. Getting outside for even a few minutes when the sun is out can help boost your mood and energy levels. Plus, the sun is known for its Vitamin D benefits which can help decrease feelings of depression.
Focus on Healthy Habits
One lifestyle change that you can make during this time is to focus on healthy habits. This can be anything from eating healthy and nutritious meals, getting enough sleep, avoiding activities that trigger depression or anxiety, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities you enjoy.
Eating nutritious meals can help your body and mind stay healthy during the winter months. Eating foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help your body to stay strong and keep your immune system functioning. For example, make sure you’re eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and drinking plenty of water.
Another important health aspect is making sure you’re getting enough sleep. When you don’t get enough sleep, it can be difficult to have enough energy during the day and can worsen any symptoms of depression.
Talking to Someone You Trust
Finally, it is important to talk to someone you trust. Having a support system can help you get through tough times like the winter blues depression. This can be a friend, family member, or even a mental health professional such as a counselor. Talking to someone you trust helps to release your feelings, which can help to reduce stress.
For instance, a depression counselor can help you to identify any negative thinking patterns that may be contributing to your depression, work on problem-solving skills, and create a plan of action. This way you can have a plan to help you manage your feelings and get through the winter blues.
Start Working with a Depression Counselor in Atlanta, GA
The winter blues can be a difficult time of year, but this doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence. William Hemphill, a depression counselor in Atlanta, GA, will help you to manage the winter blues and develop strategies to cope with your symptoms. Whether that is through online therapy or in person at our Atlanta counseling practice. When you’re ready to begin depression counseling in Atlanta, GA, follow these steps:
- Contact me to schedule an initial appointment
- Learn more about anxiety treatment
- Start overcoming the winter blues!
Other Counseling Services Offered at Faith and Family Empowerment
Depression Counseling is one of the many services offered at my Decatur, GA-based therapy practice. I offer a range of counseling services in-person and online. These include Christian counseling, and depression support groups. Other counseling services include premarital counseling, discernment counseling, and counseling for affair recovery. Learn more by visiting my about, blog, or FAQ pages today!