10 Ways To Beat Seasonal Depression's Butt
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

10 Little Ways To Fight Seasonal Depression That Will Warm You Up Inside

Don't let the bitter cold keep you down.

126
https://picjumbo.com/wp-content/uploads/woman-standing-in-the-middle-of-the-park-in-snowy-weather_free_stock_photos_picjumbo_DSC02626-2210x1474.jpg
https://picjumbo.com/wp-content/uploads/woman-standing-in-the-middle-of-the-park-in-snowy-weather_free_stock_photos_picjumbo_DSC02626-2210x1474.jpg

As the weather gets colder it's easy to fall into an emotional rut. Here's 10 ways to help fight those winter blues.

1. Try your best to stay warm

Giphy

Personally, I get very crabby and irritable when I'm too cold. Try putting on that oversized sweater, a pair of fuzzy socks, and bundle up in your favorite blanket. Crank the heat if you can, if not, layer up! A warm you is a happier you!

2. Don't stay in bed all day

Giphy

It can be incredibly tempting to stay curled up in bed all day, especially if you have a snow day (or a cold day thanks to the polar vortex hitting the Midwest right now). Sleep in by all means, but get up, make that bed and get dressed! You'll feel a lot better in the long run, even if that bed is calling your name.

3. Cross things off your "to-do" list

Giphy

This is perfect if you have a snow day. Take advantage of your free time by doing those pesky little tasks you've been meaning to get around to. Personally, mine are always organizing my desk, doing laundry, or cleaning out my email inbox. Make a little list and check it off as you go.

4. Redesign your space

Giphy

One of my favorite winter activities is redesigning my space. Whether that means moving furniture, hanging up new pictures, or even lighting a scented candle, I love refreshing my room by making some changes. Add some new throw pillows to your bed, hang up some lights, or move your desk. Whatever the case may be, a switch up might be exactly what you need.

5. Get as much sunshine as possible!

Giphy

If it isn't too cold, try going for a short walk. If you'd rather not brave the chilly air, open your blinds and let as much sunshine flow in as possible. Staying in the dark isn't healthy and a few rays of sunshine might just make you feel a little better.

6. Start a new book

Giphy

I'm sure we all have books that we've been meaning to read but just haven't gotten around to doing. It's easy to blame our busy lifestyles, but winter is a great opportunity to crack open a great read. Curl up with a cup of hot chocolate and start reading!

7. Don't let yourself be isolated

Giphy

Winter makes it easier to feel this need to "hibernate" and be alone, and that's something that can fuel the depression fire. So instead of staying alone, grab some friends and go to a coffee stop. A warm latte and some laughs with friends can really help make a dreary winter day into some fun memories. Otherwise, try going ice skating, catch a movie, or maybe bowling.

8. Pamper yourself

Giphy

One of my favorite ways to pamper myself in the winter is to take a long hot bath with lots of bubbles. Light a few candles, do a face mask, paint my nails and ta-da, I feel refreshed. Whatever "pampering" might mean for you, go do it! Use that new bath bomb, play with your makeup, or do your hair.

9. Try something new

Giphy

This can be as simple as finding a new cookie recipe on Pinterest or starting a bullet journal (one of my favorites). Invite a friend over and play a new card game or visit a new restaurant. Try learning to knit or make a DIY craft. Winter doesn't have to be a boring routine.

10. Donate your time

Giphy

It's common to see people working for the Salvation Army and soup kitchens during the holidays, but truth is, there are still lots of ways you can volunteer! Find places that are in need of a helping hand near you. Donating your time allows you to stay busy and brings a smile to another's face.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
writing
Green Chameleon

Welcome to June on Odyssey! Our creators have a fresh batch of articles to inspire you as you take a break from campus life. Here are the top three response articles of last week:

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

No Boyfriend, No Problem

Why it is okay to not be in a relationship when you are 19

1132
No Boyfriend, No Problem
Blakeley Addis

I think that as a 19 year old girl that is in college, we often get caught up in the idea of being in a relationship.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

Summer Slump

Summer isn't alway just fun in the sun.

1785
Summer Slump

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, hanging out with friends, and living it up, but for some people, that's not the case. Summer is a nightmare for idle minds. Let me explain what I mean by that. For people with mental illness having the extra time to think and relax can be devastating for their mental health. Now, this isn't a problem for everyone but for some people who suffer from mental illness, this is a reality.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

Which "Star Wars" Character Are You Based On Your Zodiac Sign

"The Rise of Skywalker" really got me thinking...

1824
Which "Star Wars" Character Are You Based On Your Zodiac Sign

Here we go...

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

NYC Classrooms struggle with marijuana and high students

The Cannabis landscape has changed, and so have what schools experience

1546
Weed
Instagram
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reported that about 35.7% of 12th graders in the U.S. had used marijuana in the past year, and 11.8% reported daily use. As for coming to school under the influence, specific statistics can be hard to come by, but there is concern that the increasing social acceptance of marijuana may lead to higher rates of use among teenagers.
Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments