Seasonal depression affects millions of Americans every year. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression described by medical experts as mood changes that are associated with weather changes. FunTimes recognizes the importance of self-care and mental wellness and offers these strategies for readers to be equipped to live their best lives this winter.

1. Stay Active

(A woman and a dog on a yoga mat. Image by cottonbro via Pexels )

Staying active, whether it be through exercise, dancing, hula hooping, or more, will get the endorphins moving, help you to feel more confident, and immediately boost your mood.

2. Establish a Routine

(Woman writing on a planner while on the phone. Image by Anthony Shkraba via Pexels )

An affirming morning routine can help you to look forward to the mornings, whether that includes a bomb playlist, your favorite robe, or an amazing body wash to help you feel empowered to conquer the day. 

3. Treat Yourself

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Buying things that make you happy like dark chocolate or a weighted blanket can help you to unwind and feel happy.

4. Aromatherapy

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Aromatherapy helps to invigorate the senses and can heighten emotional and physical well-being. Add some essential oils to your home, or to your get-ready routine when you need a pick-me-up.

5. Create a Passion Project

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Passion projects don’t have to be expensive. Pouring yourself into a passion project can help you to feel a sense of accomplishment while simultaneously building a creative portfolio for a potential side hustle or new career.

6. Create a Vision Board

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A vision board for the Winter season will help you to keep your goals in mind. With a digital vision board as your screensaver on your phone and laptop, your goals will stay at the front of your mind and help you continue on your goals with direction.

7. Dress Up

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When you look good, you feel good. On days where you don’t feel your best, it is helpful to wear clothes that will help you feel confident and celebrate the day.

8. Talk with friends

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Hanging with friends can help to alleviate the symptoms of SAD. Make time to have a good laugh with good friends this Winter season, whether it be in-person or virtual.

9. Meditation

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Meditating or sitting in stillness can be a great way to recenter one’s self. Meditate at least once a week for best results.

What advice do you have for battling SAD?

Works Cited

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

https://www.healthline.com/health/cheap-things-help-seasonal-depression-sad#5.-Caring-for-plants

https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-aromatherapy#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1

 Nana Ama Addo is a writer, multimedia strategist, film director, and storytelling artist. She graduated with a BA in Africana Studies from the College of Wooster, and has studied at the University of Ghana and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Nana Ama tells stories of entrepreneurship and Ghana repatriation at her brand, Asiedua’s Imprint ( www.asieduasimprint.com ).

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