With the change of the season comes a change in some people’s mental health. The days get shorter, and daylight means more darkness. For some the darkness is more than just the light appearance outside. Are you someone who has been affected by the change of the season in the past? If so, taking steps now to incorporate new fun things could help. We are going to talk about the change of season being hard for some today. Do you find your mood or thoughts shift as fall and winter set in? Maybe some of the below suggestions could help.
Does the Season Affect My Mood?
For some, dealing with the change of the season can be hard. For others, there is a shadow that moves in over their moods and doesn’t seem to lift until it is warm again. Sometimes, it can mean dealing with a mental health shift that requires attention. If you can relate to either, maybe these suggestions could help with the changes that are coming. Do you have a change in your mood or thoughts during the winter and you have never connected that it could be a seasonal thing? Take a look below at some of the symptoms that could occur if you are someone who is affected by the colder, darker months.
- You feel more tired
- Motivation decreases to do anything
- Depression is more present
- Stress levels increase
- Feelings of hopelessness or similar could be new
While these are not the only symptoms that those who experience a change in mood during the colder seasons, these are some of the most common. Do you find yourself struggling with an onset of different feelings, thoughts or moods during the fall and/or winter?
Could This Help Seasonal Moods?
It is often talked about, that to combat a symptom, plan for it. Meaning, tell yourself that it is coming and make plans anyway. Part of fighting any battle is making a plan for the battle. Choosing the battle steps and following through with them can be hard, I don’t want to diminish the effort that it takes sometimes. Continuing to choose to fight for yourself can, overtime, strengthen your ability to do so. What fun and enjoyable things can you think of to do in the fall and winter? Will you follow through with your battle plan? Below are some suggestions that could be a way to enjoy the change of season and partake in activity. Keeping an open mind to new things and taking note of what you find interesting can help shift your focus to the present experience. Which of the below will you try?
- Fall festivals or makers markets
- Corn mazes
- Apple picking then a new fun recipe
- Capture pictures of a mountain range changing colors
- Scenic drives and/or hikes
- Plan a game night and invite others
- Fires and smores
- Cabin get away
- Stargazing, research what you see
- Read a good book you’ve been wanting to
- Winter camping
- Indoor activities such as movies, museums, or crafts
What is Next?
Keeping an open mind to what is beautiful and interesting around you currently, can help shift your mood. When we allow ourselves to remain in negative thought patterns, it is nearly impossible to be present with what you are doing and enjoy it. Try to be intentional with choosing to find interesting and fun things about each activity you plan. you and those with you, will benefit. Write those down along with your thoughts, you may find your thoughts shift to being more positive over time. What will you give a try this fall or winter?
If you feel your struggle during the winter months is more than a mood change and you have difficulties taking self-steps to improve, Upstate Restorative Counseling is here for you. We have a team that listens and can help you establish steps toward your goals.
