Winter

[sarahmcf]

Seasonal depression or at least being an additive to “normal” depression is real. Looking back over the last few years of my life, I struggle more with my depression during Winter months. The sun doesn’t shine as often. It’s nearly always freezing. The sidewalks and roads are icy or slushy and disgusting. I live in a state where it seems that winter and summer are the only two seasons. Too cold and too hot. What I wouldn’t give to move somewhere where the sun shines more, the snow and rain doesn’t create constant turmoil, and it always be a manageable temperature. As a teenager I was outside CONSTANTLY. I’d sit on our swing and listen to music. Rain or shine. Hot or freezing. I frequently had a cold but it was worth it. Nature was calming and was an escape from my home. Now with three small kids and living in a rural town it’s hard getting out into real nature and it actually be calming. So now, winter is only viewed as a negative thing with occasional fun snow days with the kids. I wish I could find more joy within these darker, colder days.

[Cocomelon1234]

As a parent I agree with you about winter, and it does get a big depressing because the kids want to do fun things and it is hard to go outside. What I started to do was purchase board games, and yoga mats so now each day we keep each other active and not allow the weather to get to us. I feel like it brought us together a bit more.

[sarahmcf in reply to Cocomelon1234]

I adore that idea!

[Hidden]

Dress with more layers and go for a walk. Grab headphones and mp3, phone whatever and go for walk. If kids are to little for that, make a little time some how for you. Winter is hard but can be great. I love the crunching under my feet. Stay in vehicle grab a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, goto lake, river and watch nature. Crack window listen to everything. I do it alot. Very calming. I am a mechanic so 2 worst things about winter, openin bay doors and getting drip on while underneath vehicle. Cold water running down neck and back sucks.

[MissStruggling123]

I could see the winter depression. I can never find the time to enjoy any outside activities because it does get dark so much sooner. By the time I am off of work, it is pitch black and I am ready to go to bed. I haven't quite figured out how to conquer seasonal depression. I have found that taking a walk during lunch when it's actually still light outside, is beneficial to some degree. Another trick is to join a program or club. By going to the gym and taking yoga classes, it gives you something to look forward to, without needing the sun from outside.

[nicetry]

I’m with FordGuy — try layering up and taking a walk, esp on a brighter day. I have bird feeders outside the family room window & hear birds chirping all day. Or put on headphones and find nature sounds on YouTube or wherever. I find that very calming.

[crowningglory19]

You have to get outside anyway, it is good for you, just like when you were a kid. Bring the kids, they will be stronger and happier for it and calmer inside. Also, there are sun lamps that give you that same effect and increase your vit. D. Take your multivitamins and give the kids a kid's chewable, you will all be happier for it. Best to you and your sweet little ones! Also, music is a wonderful healer and mood lifter. =)