How to Beat the Winter Blues with Simple Daily Habits

Seasonal affective disorder, also known as the winter blues, can range from being uncomfortable to debilitating. With the right winter mood support, such as maintaining an active lifestyle supplemented with diet and exercise, you can navigate the winter season with confidence and ease. 

Psychiatry.org reports that over 40 percent of Americans feel more depressed during the winter season. Although December is usually a time for celebrations and family gatherings, it can evoke complex feelings for many people.

If you start to feel sadness creep in as winter approaches, you may be wondering how to beat the winter blues. This guide will explore common questions about the winter blues and the best methods for keeping seasonal depression at bay for seniors in North Richland Hills, TX. 

What Are the Winter Blues?

Since seniors often face stigmas around mental health, it is important to identify the symptoms of winter blues. The "winter blues" is a nickname for seasonal affective disorder, more commonly referred to as seasonal depression. 

Signs that you may be suffering from winter blues include:

• Loss of interest in regular activity
• Isolation from family and friends
• Excessive sleep or insomnia
• Negative feelings surrounding winter 
• Feelings of fatigue and malaise 

How Long Do the Winter Blues Usually Last?

The longevity and severity of the winter blues differ between patients. Some people start to feel symptoms when temperatures dip and do not begin to feel like their usual selves until spring. Others may experience intense feelings of sadness around the holidays, but for a shorter period. 

How to Beat the Winter Blues

If you feel overwhelmed by your seasonal affective disorder, do not fret. Here are some key seasonal affective disorder tips to implement today so you're on the road to recovery.

Get Plenty of Sunlight 

Spending time outside can have a positive impact on emotional wellness in seniors. The Cleveland Clinic reports that a significant portion of the population suffers from vitamin D deficiency, which can worsen during the winter months when limited sunlight is available. 

Make an effort to get outside daily, if possible. Even if it is only for a handful of minutes, absorbing sunlight can drastically improve your mood and increase vitamin D levels. 

If you have mobility issues or you are unable to physically go outside, open your curtains and windows to maximize sunlight exposure. Consider purchasing a daylight simulator to use during the darker parts of the day. These lamps mimic natural sunlight and can have therapeutic effects. 

Maintain a Healthy Diet 

During the winter, it can be all too easy to indulge in holiday dishes or drink alcohol in excess. Although everything is fine in moderation, it is important to continue your healthy eating habits to avoid worsening symptoms of winter blues. 

Limit alcohol consumption to the occasional toast or drink with friends and family. Since alcohol is a depressant, it can actually worsen your symptoms. 

Counter unhealthy snacks with healthier alternatives. For instance, pair a Christmas cookie with some fresh fruit or vegetables for a more balanced snack. 

Exercise Regularly 

Exercise is vital for maintaining emotional wellness and balance over the winter months. Try to work some physical activity into your routine every day, even if it is simply taking a walk outside or doing some basic stretches. 

Socialize With Friends and Family

While isolation is already tempting if you suffer from seasonal affective disorder, indulging in your craving for alone time can exacerbate symptoms, rather than alleviate them. Make an effort to socialize with friends and family, or even other residents in your senior living community. 

If possible, make plans ahead of time so you are less likely to back out of a commitment. Even doing a quiet activity with your loved ones can ease feelings of loneliness and despair. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Are Some Daily Engagement Ideas for Assisted Living Wellness?

Cultivating a healthy lifestyle can be a wonderful method to combat the winter blues. Some tips for assisted living wellness include: 

• Participate in activities: Take a look at the activities and events offered by your community and attend the ones that interest you.
• Invest in friendships: Find residents with similar interests and actively pursue relationships to form lasting friendships.
• Maintain independence: Even if you need assistance with some everyday activities, try to lead as independent a lifestyle as possible.
• Volunteer: Search for volunteer activities with local churches, charities, or mutual aid organizations 
• Limit screen time: Excessive screen time and social media use can disrupt your circadian rhythm and cause issues with self-esteem.

When Should I Consider Medication for Seasonal Affective Disorder? 

It depends. If your seasonal affective disorder symptoms persist, it is crucial to be honest with your doctor about your struggles.

Here are some signs you may need medication to help manage seasonal depression: 

• Your symptoms interfere with your daily life 
• Treatments such as phototherapy and light therapy aren't working 
• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness are severe

What Is the Difference Between Major Depressive Disorder and Winter Blues? 

Although the symptoms can be similar, there are some marked differences between major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. It is important to distinguish between the two so you can get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. 

The symptoms of seasonal affective disorder peak during certain times of the year. Although it is nicknamed the "winter blues," seasonal depression can strike at any time of year. Conversely, major depressive disorder does not associate its symptoms with the changing of the seasons. 

Aging and Emotional Health at Morada North Richland Hills

Still wondering how to beat the winter blues? With this guide, you can confidently navigate the winter season with joy, all while spending time with your loved ones. 

At Morada North Richland Hills, we ensure our residents are cared for all year round. Our exclusive programs include health and wellness activities geared toward seniors, chef-prepared meals in a private dining room, and more. With an attentive staff and concierge services, our residents can focus on enriching their lives, rather than dealing with daily hassles. 

Are you ready to make the transition to a stunning community that enhances your quality of life? Reach out to us today to learn more, or visit our location in North Richland Hills, TX, to see it in person.