Cold days, early nights! Need ideas to help with theses items.

[ZOO7]

please share your tried and true ideas to help combat the anxiety I feel with the cold temperatures and it getting darker earlier!

[AnxiousSilver]

I've been struggling hard with anxiety and depression myself lately.

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I know that I have been able to deal with this easier in the past by turning on more lights.

They actually make a SAD (seasonal affectiveness disorder) lamp (or even light bulbs) to help with that too.

I wish that I could be more help to you, but I just want to say that you are not alone.

[miranez]

Hi, I live in Washington state and we have long nights here too. I'd look up the Danish concept of hygge. It helps them deal with long nights and days that sometimes don't have sun. The concept boils down to coziness and togetherness. You kinda take the negative and turn it into a positive. For example, set up your home for comfort (food, drink, movies, blankets, books, games, plants) and light. A fireplace, candles, maybe even a therapy lamp (some people advise asking your doctor for info on a therapy lamp). Be intentional about how you're going to spend your days. Get outside to breathe in fresh air, even if it's cracking open a window or standing on your doorstep. Obviously it's better to go out and walk, but if you can't or you're not in the mood, there are alternatives.

I hope this helps!

[RemySue]

I'm right there with you! I do try to schedule a few things a week in the evening (bible study, volunteering, yoga, etc) to make myself do something instead of wanting to go to bed at 6. Being alone bothers me more in the evenings. I walk a lot as a coping mechanism and the weather last week was definitely not on my side and I spiraled down. Best of luck-I'll be following this thread to see other ideas.