This time of year can be rough on many of us. The holidays are over and the “new year excitement” starts to fade as well. The sun comes around less frequently than it does other times of the year, and this can have a really profound impact on our mental health and wellness.

Did you know that approximately 10 million Americans experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? Symptoms of SAD include fatigue, depression, social withdrawal, hopelessness, mood swings, apathy, and more. Symptoms are mainly felt or are intensified when the seasons change, and especially when days get shorter and colder in the transition from fall to winter.

One of the best ways to combat the symptoms of SAD is exercise. Of course, exercise is not a cure-all; it is important to engage in other self-care activities as well. But exercise is an EXCELLENT way to fight these symptoms or prevent them altogether. Exercise can help to reduce stress, improve mood, increase energy, and improve sleep quality and overall quality of life. Exercise also causes your brain to release ‘feel good’ chemicals (endorphins) that help to improve your mood and cause an overall sense of wellbeing.

Other great ways to help care for your mental and physical health during the winter months are: yoga, meditation, journaling, cold plunges, deep breathing exercises, daily gratitude, and practicing mindfulness (the act of being aware of and focusing on the present moment as well as your internal feelings/ emotions). Additionally, exposing yourself to fresh air right away in the morning can also have positive effects on your overall health and wellness.

Making your mental health a priority during the winter can help you feel better all around!

If you feel you are struggling more than normal, please reach out to your healthcare provider for additional support, and contact emergency services if you have any feelings of harming yourself or others.