It’s smack dab middle of winter, and for a lot of people, this time usually brings on depression due to lack of vitamin D. I know because I go through it myself. So, here are some tips to conquer seasonal depression this winter.

First of all, find a new hobby. It has to be something that you really enjoy and that can take your mind off things for a while. For example, mine is playing my ukulele. I started playing in July and absolutely love it, it’s my escape from reality. So whether it’s playing an instrument, working out, playing a sport, etc, you should find something to keep you entertained when you feel stir crazy from being cooped up inside all day.

In addition, who says you can’t go outside in the winter? You can go for walks, go sledding, go ice skating, or whatever else you may want to do. Sure, the doses of vitamin D are a lot lower in the winter because we don’t get as much sunlight but it’s better to have some vitamin D than none at all! Even that little bit of outdoors time can significantly change your mood.

Also, be sure to surround yourself with people. Some people tend to push others away during their experience with seasonal depression, but more often than not it’s better to have others around to cheer you up when you’re feeling down. You can hang with your family, or some friends and just do whatever to try to keep your mind off of the sadness you’re feeling. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and let them know what you’re going through either because if they truly care about you, they will want to help in whatever way that they can.

Lastly, from the girl who knows, the best advice in general that I can give is to keep yourself busy. Usually my depression flares up at night when I’m laying in bed trying to sleep because I’m not doing anything and my mind starts to wander. So now I try to write a little bit or read a book to keep my mind occupied. Maybe you can try to do the same.

I hope my little bit of advice helps some of you out there. Just remember that you’re not alone, and if no one else, I’m always here to talk.

All my love,

Kamille