Do you feel like your mood changes with the season? You’re not the only one.

Whether you recognize it or not, the weather can enormously impact your mood. This winter laziness is also known as "seasonal affective disorder" or SAD. People with the seasonal affective disorder make up about 10% of all depression cases. Statistics show that 1 in every four people feel a dramatic shift in their emotions, physical body, and food cravings between October to April. 

About 2 to 3% of Canadians will experience SAD in their lifetime. Another 15% will experience a milder form of SAD that leaves them only slightly depressed but still able to live their life without major disruptions. 

No matter where you fall in the stats, or if you know someone who is struggling, here are some ways to improve how you feel during winter.

Signs Of The Winter Blues

In the winter, you may notice that you want to sleep much more than usual and crave carbohydrates. Other warning signs include : 

• Feelings of sadness, cranky, or hopeless
• Less energy
• Trouble concentrating
• Fatigue
• Greater appetite
• More desire to be alone
• Thoughts of suicide
• Weight gain

Be mindful of how you feel when temperatures drop and check in with loved ones. 

Tips To Beat The Winter Blues

Get Outside

It may feel like the last thing you want to do, but getting outside during the winter can boost your mood. Take some time to read tips for staying safe outdoor exercise in the winter. Don’t forget to open up your blinds and let the sunshine in. 

Wake Up and Have a Routine

Oversleeping is tempting when it’s cold outside, but sticking to waking up at a consistent time can be beneficial. Resist the urge to hit the snooze button and start your day with a healthy breakfast or getting outside.

Wear Bright Colours

Who said that your clothing needs to get darker with the seasons? Brighten up your wardrobe in the winter with patterns, vibrant scarves, and colourful activewear. Wearing bright colours can help make you feel hopeful and cheerful even when it's gloomy outside.

Cut Back on Sugar

We’re not saying to ditch the hot chocolate altogether, but considering how much sugar you ingest daily. Cutting back on sugar will help you feel better physically and lower feelings of anxiety. Reducing the amount of sugar you have can also help you sleep better. 

Add A Little Indoor Greenery

Try growing citrus plants indoors, growing spring bulbs, or adding an air-purifying houseplant to your home. Walking around a local greenhouse is also a huge mood booster in the winter.

Visit A Historical Site

Try something new in the community. London has many museums and historical sites that you can keep warm and get inspired while walking around. 

Self Care

Indulge in an at-home spa day, read a book, watch a movie, plan a date night. Spending time nourishing yourself and spending time with your loved ones can help you feel supported.

Vitamin D

Please speak to your family physician about taking a supplement for Vitamin D. It can support immune, brain, and nervous system health.

Use A Sun Lamp

Sun lamps positively impact your body's regulation of melatonin. This hormone helps control your sleep-wake cycle and serotonin, which helps regulate your mood by relaying signals in your brain.