Busting the Winter Blues

Kosher Fitness
By Michael Ungar

Now that the hubbub of Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and the New Year have died down, those of us in northern realms are bracing for the long slog ahead. Here in Cleveland, the thaw usually starts in March but a few years back we had five inches of snow on Mother’s Day! For many people, it can be downright depressing—literally.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects millions of people in northern climes. Often known as the Winter Blues, it is more than just feeling “down.” Symptoms can include depression, sleep problems, lethargy, overeating (!), irritability and feeling unsocial. SAD is linked to the fact that, during the winter, there are fewer daylight hours; the increased darkness can lead to emotional and psychological issues. Research shows that the effects on older adults can be more severe than for those who are younger.

A recent article from NHS (National Health Service) in Scotland addresses some of the ways to manage SAD, or even some of the symptoms that all of us may feel during the long, winter months. Ten suggestions are given for how to alleviate the Winter Blues; the full article shares more details.

1. 1. Keep active
   2. Get outside
   3. Keep warm
   4. Eat healthily
   5. Use light therapy (utilize a light box)
   6. Take up a new hobby
   7. Visit friends and family
   8. Get talk therapy; see a counselor or therapist to discuss what you are experiencing.
   9. Join a support group
   10. Get medical help; if none of the above seem to make an impact, be in touch with your physician as prescription medications can help.

Even though the days have started getting longer, there is still more darkness than light until Spring commences in March. Some of us love the winter; we don’t mind the cold and we may even embrace the snow. If, however, you find that the Winter Blues are impacting your ability to do the things you need to or like to do on a regular basis, it is time to do something about it.

Of course, if you don’t suffer from SAD, the suggestions above are still great ways to get through the winter months more happily and healthily.

This lightly-edited blog with photo was originally published on kosher-fitness.com on 1/5/24 by Rabbi Ungar.