Flourish In January: 7 Ways To Beat Seasonal Depression

January seems like the longest month! I hear from so many people how much they dread January and how hard the winter months can be on the mental health. Christmas is over, and the weather is generally lousy most of the time. Also, the shorter days have an impact on our mental health. I live in Georgia where the winter is short and mild, and I still struggle. So what is seasonal depression vs. the winter blues? Let’s talk about some ways to beat the January dread!

Some of the feelings you might experience with seasonal depression are:

• Fatigue, lack of energy or motivation
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Changes in appetite or sleep
• General sadness
• Craving sugar or carbohydrates

There are many reasons for these feelings and they are real for many of us, myself included.

There is a type of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. It is a real medical diagnosis. Symptoms come and go with the seasons, typically starting in the late fall and early winter and going away when spring comes. This is caused by chemical changes in the brain, decreased sunlight, and an too much melatonin (a hormone that regulates sleep patterns). If you suffer from clinical depression, SAD might be another aspect of your depression.

Just because you get the “winter blues” does not mean that you have a mental illness. I am not a doctor, but as someone who does suffer from this issue, I wanted to give you some practical (not medical) advice. If you suspect you might have SAD, then please see your doctor as there are ways to treat this condition.

Practical Ways To Fight Seasonal Depression

Spring always comes, but in the meantime it’s important to enjoy life to the fullest even in the winter. Here are some things you can do avoid the winter blues that have worked for me.

1. Sunlight

You might notice that in October when daylight savings time ends, your mood may suffer. Lack of sunlight is a major contributor to any kind of seasonal depression or even sadness. So my first tip that is the most important one is to get as much sunlight as possible!

Even if it’s cold , bundle up and get outside. Even a few minutes can make a difference. If you have an afternoon sunbeam that comes in your window, sit in it. There are also light therapy options that can be recommended by your healthcare provider, but good natural sunlight is always an easy remedy.

2. Display A Bouquet Of Fresh Flowers

One of the easiest ways to brighten your mood and surroundings is with a pretty plant or bouquet of flowers. I often place a plant in my kitchen where I spend a lot of time. When everything outside looks dead and bare, a brightly colored bouquet will instantly make you feel better. If you don’t want to spend money on fresh flowers, display a good quality artificial arrangement with lots of color in it.

3. Update Home Decor With A Fresh New Accessory

Another way to avoid the winter blues is to create an indoor space that is inviting. Purchasing a new home accessory or two can really refresh a space. After Christmas, your home can look a bit bare after taking down all of the Christmas decor.

You could pick winter themed decor or something entirely different. Whatever makes you happy. For more winter decorating ideas, you should read this post.

4. Tackle A Project

One of my favorite things to do at the start of a new year is get organized! It is such a satisfying feeling to conquer the clutter and it gives us something positive to do if we are stuck inside.

Does your closet need a good clean out? If so, you may want to refer to this post I wrote about how to clean out your closet.

Update and organize your home office. Notice the bright pink cherry blossoms. Who cares if it’s not spring yet! These are some of my favorite artificial stems and they brighten the room and my mood.

Home office organization is one of my favorite little pick me ups. Target has a great selection of office decor and paper supplies!

5. Get Moving

It can be tempting to be a couch potato during the winter. Let’s face it, there will be days when curling up with a blanket and watching Netflix is your best option. The important thing is not to make a habit of it. Everyone will be on the fitness band wagon during January, then people tend to fizzle out. I’ve done that more times than I can count.

What I have found that works for me is to have small attainable goals. Don’t resolve to go to the gym everyday if you hate the gym. Don’t resolve to run a marathon if you hate running. Find something you enjoy and you will be more likely to do it. For me, just taking my dogs for a walk around the neighborhood can make me feel better. Bundle up and get some fresh air. It works!

Here are some of my favorite athletic pieces. My favorite ways to stay active are walking, pilates, and playing pickleball. As someone who has never enjoyed the gym, there are so many other ways to stay fit and active. Make sure you truly enjoy the activity and your mental and physical health will benefit!

6. Change Up Your Beauty Routine

A new year may be the perfect time to try something new with your beauty routine. You may want to check out my full skincare routine…you can see it here. Try some new makeup or a new hairstyle. Sometimes just a subtle change can make you feel refreshed and avoid the winter blues.

Don’t forget to include sunscreen in your winter skincare routine…even if it’s gloom and cloudy outside. My new favorite sunscreen/under eye corrector is this one! You can read more about it here.

7. Snuggle With Your Pet

My dogs bring me so much joy and comfort. There is a reason why animals are used for therapy. My dogs can brighten my mood in an instant and they seem to instinctively know when I am feeling down. If you struggle with seasonal depression, I would strongly recommend a pet.

Hint: A Standard Poodle Is Amazing….just saying!

Bonus Tips:

YouTube Scenes

For the past year or so, I have been enjoying YouTube scenes in the background while I work. You can simply search “Winter Scenes” or whatever scenery appeals to you at the moment. They are so realistic, and really can brighten your mood. Some have music and some are just nature sounds.

Use An Electric Blanket

If you live in climate with milder winters, you can be outside a little more than someone who lives in the north, for example. If I have a day that is in the 50 degree range, I will take my electric blanket on the deck and work outside to get the sunshine. I purchased this one from Amazon.

Final Thoughts

Whether you suffer from minor winter blues, seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder there are resources to help you. First, make sure to consult your health care provider to make sure you are getting the best advice. Also, seasonal depression is typically experienced in the fall and winter months, but many people also experience it at other times of the year.

If you are a believer in prayer, I also recommend making sure your spiritual health is in a good place. Spend time reading your bible, praying, and trusting that your creator knows your struggles and wants you to have peace of mind and joy…even when it’s cold and raining outside!

If you struggle during the winter months like I do, I hope you will try these things. What are your winter survival tips? Share them in the comments below. Spring is just around the corner…we can make it!

If you enjoyed this post, consider subscriber to my email list so all new content comes straight to you.

Other Posts To Read Next:

• Healthy Hair Routine For Wavy Hair
• 10 Easy Outfit Ideas You Already Have In Your Closet
• 5 Ways To Wear A Perfect Red Dress Casual Style
• Save Time & Money: How To Create A Gel Manicure Kit
• The Absolute Best Walmart Dresses You Need In Your Wardrobe