HOW TO COPE WITH THE WINTER BLUES

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By Kate Todd

 Winter is in full force and this term is ELEVEN weeks long. How will we cope?
As the days get shorter and the nights get colder, even the best of us can feel a bit down. The "winter blues" are characterized by the mild depression, lack of motivation, and low energy that many of us experience during this cold season. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to both prevent the blues and get yourself back to normal if they’re already here.

1. Exercise
Exercise isn’t only for maintaining your weight and staying healthy. It’s great for relieving the stresses of life. Plus, the effects of a workout can last for several hours after you hit the showers. You’ll have more energy throughout the day, and your metabolism with stay elevated too. Exercise also helps your mind by releasing those "feel good chemicals" that improve your mood. 

2. Eat Healthy
What and when you eat has a big affect on your mood and energy. Avoid processed foods that are not only devoid of the nutrients your body craves, but they zap your energy levels and can affect your mood—causing depression, lack of concentration, and mood swings. Try to incorporate complex carbohydrates (whole wheat breads, brown rice, veggies, fruit) and get approx. 8 cups of water a day.  Healthy body = healthy mind.

3. Get Some Sun
Most people know that sunlight provides us with Vitamin D. But did you know that it also improves your mood? Winter days are shorter and darker than other months, and because of the cold weather, a lot of people spend less time outdoors. Lack of sunlight can cause some people to feel depressed. Similar to exercise, sunlight exposure releases neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood. Try to spend a little more time outdoors.  Keep your shades up during the day to let more light in. Sit near windows at home and during class.

4. Relax!
You’re busy! Exams, study, sports, school, family, friends, meetings—even if you enjoy being busy, everyone needs some down time. Don’t be afraid to say "No" to extra opportunities. Try to spend a few minutes each day doing nothing! Read a book or magazine, sleep in on the weekend, go to bed early, try meditation or a yoga class. Relaxation, especially in the form of yoga, can alleviate stress and leave you with a calm energy. Mental exercises like meditation and positive thinking can help keep depression at bay.  

5. Talk to a health professional or the school nurse
Don’t suffer alone. Talk to the counselors, your form teacher, parents and your friends.
You are not alone. Get out in the sunshine, read a book, take a hot bath, go out for a walk or eat some chocolate. Not long until the end of term. Kia kaha.

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