SEASONAL BLUES + HOW TO COPE

While the pumpkin spice and everything nice girlies are excitedly pulling out the sweater and leggings for the season, there are a handful of people who start to experience Season affective disorder aka seasonal depression or winter blues during this time of year. So for those who aren't excited about the crisp fall air or dreary winter days, how can you get through the season?

It's not always apparent when seasonal blues start to set in. Shorter days = less sunlight and colder weather can affect mood. It may show up in the form of feeling sad or down, extended fatigue, difficulty concentrating, increased appetite (especially for sweets + carbs), sleepiness, or loss of interest in activities.

If you notice a significant shift in your emotional well-being during certain seasons, it's important to recognize and acknowledge it.

To combat seasonal blues,
- prioritize exposure to natural light by spending time outdoors if possible or use a light therapy box.
- Regular physical activity, especially outdoors can boost mood-enhancing endorphins.
- Maintaining a healthy sleep routine and a balanced diet can significantly impact your mental well-being. 

If feelings of sadness persist, consider talking with a therapist, who can offer tools like Cognitive-behavioral therapy to help manage symptoms. 

Practicing mindfulness or engaging in creative activities can also provide a sense of purpose and joy, promoting overall mental wellness during the tougher months.

(** I am not a doctor or clinician. Everything I wrote about is is only from my knowledge and research. Please see a doctor if any of this deeply resonates with you and feel like you need help getting through it. **)