Surviving the winter; pointers from someone who is experiencing European Winter for the first time.

We are almost towards to the end of the Cold Grey winter; the days of sunshine and clear skies bring in hope and happiness but the grey days are still around.
If you are feeling sluggish, tired, sad or irritable during a particular time of the year, it's time to sit up and take notice! The days have got shorter and with less daylight, there is dullness which refuses to leave.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of recurrent major depressive disorder, with symptoms of sad mood, low energy, increased sleep and low interest.
A disorder that remits throughout the rest of the year but affects you during a certain time period (commonly winters). While many of us might not meet the criteria for SAD as on the DSM 5, a subsyndromal type "winter blues" is something you can be experiencing.
Please seek immediate professional help if you identify with these symptoms and they are getting worse.
Here are some pointers to manage Winter Blues; if you are new and experiencing harsh Winters for the first time:
Acknowledge that it is the change in season that might impact you
Step out in the sun, spend time in the light!
Make a habit of drawing your curtains and opening your windows (even for a little while)
Step out even if there is no sun; a walk in the park or a quick grocery run
Speak to your Family doctor about Vitamin D supplements, or incorporate it in your diet
Plan for socialization well in advance (you would be more likely to show up), meeting your friends/family will be a good mood booster
Involve some light movement in your day; such cleaning up, dancing for ten minutes, light Yoga, maybe stretches
Create a Spotify "Good Vibes" Playlist, all uplighting and upbeat songs
Get some plants for company and spend time taking care of them
Spend time with pets, your own or a friend's!
Try out Psychotherapy or Counselling
Hope this list was useful, feel free to share how you cope with the Cold.
If you are considering mental health support
schedule a discovery call with me, write to me on drishtijaisingh2608@gmail.com
Until the next time :)
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