Winter can be tough on mental health. The lack of sunlight and warmth makes it hard to stay upbeat. Shorter days and colder temperatures can lead to a dip in mood and energy levels, leaving many people battling feelings of gloom and lethargy. If you find it difficult to maintain a positive outlook during winter, here are five effective tips to help boost your mood and support your mental well-being.
1. Embrace natural light
Limited exposure to natural light during winter can cause feelings of sadness and lethargy, a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or the “winter blues”. To counteract the effects of winter, maximise your exposure to natural light by keeping curtains and blinds open during the day and spending time outdoors, even on cloudy days, to soak up much-needed vitamin D.
2. Stay active
Regular exercise is an essential part of maintaining mental health during the winter months. Just two hours a week spent exercising outdoors helps release endorphins, natural hormones which help lower stress levels, improve mood, and enhance overall wellbeing. To stay active and lift your spirits, consider joining a winter sports club, get outside for walks, or sign up for indoor activities like yoga or dance.
3. Socialise and Connect
It's understandable to feel the urge to hibernate during winter, but loneliness and isolation can make the winter blues even worse. To combat feelings of sadness, maintain social connections by reaching out to friends, family, and co-workers. Plan activities like game nights, potlucks, or movie marathons to stay connected and supported.
4. Practice self-care
Another way to beat the winter blues is to engage in activities you enjoy and do things that relax and rejuvenate you. Creative outlets like painting or drawing, reading a good book, or practicing meditation all help to alleviate stress. Maintaining a healthy diet with nutritious options is also important. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are mood-boosters, while fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provide essential nutrients that support mental well-being.
5. Ask for help if you need it
It’s not unusual to experience fatigue, sadness or difficulty concentrating at this time of year, and for most people this mood change is temporary and easily managed with a few lifestyle changes. But if you find yourself struggling with persistent feelings of sadness, lack of motivation, or symptoms of depression, please get professional help. Contact a mental health professional who can provide guidance, support, and the appropriate treatment to help you through the challenges of winter.
Preparing for the winter
Don't let the winter blues get you down. Take charge of your mental well-being and financial health this season. If you're feeling overwhelmed by winter gloom, now is the perfect time to review and improve your financial situation.
Contact a Mortgage Express branded mortgage adviser for expert advice and guidance tailored to your unique circumstances. Get help finding the right finance solution to upgrade your home to make it warmer and drier this winter. And let's work together to ensure your finances are in excellent condition so you have of peace of mind and a brighter outlook during the colder months.
