Now, I am no expert, no therpist, no counselor but during Covid I experience a bad case of seasonal affective disorder (also known as SAD) which includes anxiety and depression. SAD affects up to 3% of Americans each season and during Covid if affected many more. According to Medline Plus, SAD is defined as, “Seasonal affective disorder is a mental health condition that is triggered by the changing of the seasons”
Typically, I don’t experience SAD but I do hate the time change and now more than ever. Now, I am working from home and only getting out of the house when necessary. So, I have to prepare myself for the dark and cold winter months even if I am not experiencing SAD.
I would like to share a few of things I implement before daylight savings time to give myself the best chance of surviving the months without high irritation and monotony.
Sunlight
Open your blinds, get outside when it is sunny. The sun is packed with vitamin D which can help improve your mood. Get some fresh air, go for a drive, or even go for a walk! I make a point to get outside every day that is sunny no matter how cold.
Wash Yo A**
I know this may seem like a no brainer but it can be easy to get out of the habit of taking care of your hygiene. Be sure you get up take a shower and brush your teeth. Now, I may not always do my hair but I always, ALWAYS take a shower and brush my teeth. And, if it is one of those day that you are struggling just stand in the water, I promise it will motivate you to shower.
Don’t over think meals
One of the first things that always fall off my radar is cooking. But, during these times I make what I have in the house and keep my essentials stocked. And, if I am really craving something I plan to cook it during the week. Even if you make chili or spaghetti to munch on for a few days, do that. Don’t over think cooking, do what you can to make sure you eat. Make it a point to cook what you have and to eat at least twice a day but shoot for 3 times a day. Also, keep water stocked or a Brita pitcher.
Get Dressed! Put it On!
One of my favorite things to do during this time of year is get dressed. In the summer while working from home I put on whatever to just sit around the house to work but during the winter is another story. I like to put on a cute warm outfit because when you look good you feel good.
Be around your people
As an extrovert the winter months can be tough because you dont want to get out much and your friends dont want to get as much either. Create a FaceTime schedule with your friends and make sure you see each others faces. Be sure to have dates, family dates, friend dates, dating dates or even kick backs at the house. Being around the people you love can help improve your mood and keep your spirits high. Also, the winter time is the best time for get togethers at the crib.
