It’s beginning to look a lot like…a long, dark winter. For some people, seasonal depression is nothing new. But, 2020 has been especially difficult already. With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging (and even surging) in some parts of the country, seasonal depression may seem overwhelming worse this year. 

Seasonal depression can be hard if you struggle with it. You wake up when it’s dark and cold, and you might even go to work in the darkness and come home the same way.

It’s easy to feel unmotivated, unproductive, and sad. With the pandemic worries on top of that, you could be facing a dangerous combination. 

So, how can you cope with COVID-19 while battling seasonal depression? 

Winter During the Pandemic

There have been several studies already showing some of the mental health effects of the pandemic. People are feeling isolated, anxious, fearful, and uncertain. 

Now that winter is just around the corner, coping with those feelings in addition to seasonal depression will require a bit of strategizing. 

It’s important to know ahead of time what your winter triggers might be, in light of the pandemic. They might include things like: 

• Frigid temperatures: Being outside has offered a bit of relief for those stuck at home or trying to social distance. In the winter, it isn’t possible to be out as much depending on where you live.
• Social isolation: Isolation has been a huge problem since the beginning of this pandemic. While it’s important to keep yourself and others safe, humans are social creatures. Being alone and feeling disconnected can wreak havoc on your mental health. In the winter, it can be even worse. 
• The holidays: There is, perhaps, no time worse for social isolation than the holiday season. Some people feel down during the holidays, to begin with. But, if you feel like your traditions are being denied or you can’t see the people you love, it could be another powerful trigger. 

It’s so important to acknowledge the triggers but not give in to the emotional upheaval that can ensue. Take action now in the following ways so you can cope throughout the winter:

How to Manage Your Seasonal Depression During the Pandemic

If you typically struggle with seasonal depression, be prepared to feel it, even more, this year. But, there are things you can do now and throughout the season to cope. 

First, spend as much time outside as possible. If you live in an area where the weather is still nice, get outside often. Nature and fresh, brisk air can rejuvenate and shift your focus outward. Soak it up as much as you can to build up your resilience. Being outside is a great way to remain socially distanced while taking advantage of some much-needed, immune-boosting sunlight. 

Another good rule of thumb?Practice mindfulness or meditation. Doing so, even for a few minutes each day, can help you to stay focused on the present. When you have seasonal depression and you’re anxious over COVID, it’s easy to let your mind wander to the worst places. and stay there. Mindfulness allows you to let thoughts come and go freely. You focus only on your breathing and what is surrounding you now. 

Finally, keep your routines throughout the winter. Try to wake up at the same time, follow a morning ritual, and go about your day. Nighttime routines can also help provide you with a sense of comfort and stability despite the changing light. 

If you’re still struggling or worried that this winter will be harder than most, you’re not alone. Feel free to read more about depression, seasonal or otherwise, and please contact me soon. Together, we’ll go over more ways to cope through the colder months as the pandemic continues to spread across the globe.