Blog by Erin Cheever, Doctor of Psychology Student at the Family Health Clinic in 2020.
Do you feel like you’re waiting for warmer weather to enjoy the beauty of Indiana? Often, people report feeling down or stuck during the winter months as they wait for better weather. Here are some tips to get you through the rough winter months!
1. Schedule Activities
Schedule and plan at least one activity per week for you and your family to get yourself out of the house. Having something to look forward to, as well as a planned activity often increases positive mood and breaks up the monotony of winter.
2. Follow a Routine Sleep Schedule
The lack of sunlight can mess with your body’s natural sleep rhythm. As tempting as it is to sleep in on a cold, dark morning, it is important to make sure you are getting up at the same time each day. Establish a routine wake up time and develop a soothing bedtime ritual to help you sleep. It is recommended to get 7 hours of sleep per night!
3. Exercise
Exercise helps to improve mood and mental functioning, as well as promote physical health. It is easy to become sedentary in the winter, so adding in routine exercise will help improve your mood!
4. Take a Vitamin D Supplement
With the lack of sunshine, we are often low on the vitamin D we need to feel happy and healthy. Taking a daily vitamin D supplement to help boost your vitamin D levels, which will reduce possible symptoms related to depression. Make sure to let your nurse practitioner know if you begin this supplement.
5. Get Cozy
Put on your favorite pair of lounge pants, cuddle up by the fire with a warm cup of cocoa and good company. It is important to take time to relax and spend time with loved ones.
Still not feeling right? Talk to us.
If you want to come in and talk to one of our personal and professional therapists, we can help you develop a personalized plan for getting through this time. To make an appointment, call (800) 321-5043.
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