Not only do these long cold winter months have a big impact on our mood and mental health, but there has also been a lot of heavy stuff going on in the world. Therefore, it’s important to consider how we are feeling and take care of ourselves.  I wanted to share a few reminders/tips you can implement for yourself and/or pass along to others. https://www.harvardpilgrim.org/hapiguide/strategies-to-maintain-your-mental-health-this-winter/

• Get the right amount of sleep.

Getting enough sleep—typically 7 to 8 hours a night—can help you feel less stressed and more energetic and resilient. It also helps in maintaining your mental health. Develop a night time routine you enjoy, incorporating soothing activities like reading, meditation, journaling, or drinking decaffeinated tea.

 

• Spend time with friends.

Finding ways to socialize and spend time with loved ones can often be a mood booster. “Humans are highly social creatures, and we need social support to cope with stress and promote resiliency,” says Boston psychologist Berta Summers, Ph.D. “Having a social support network is one of the biggest protective factors we have against mental health issues.”

 

• Keep moving.

When you walk, jog, cycle, dance, play in the snow, or do other activities that get your heart pumping, your brain releases a range of neurochemicals that promote feelings of well-being, which can even help with mild depression.

 

• Go outside.

During a cold New England winter, it’s tempting to wrap yourself in a heavy blanket and hibernate inside watching TV. But going outdoors can do wonders for your mood. Sunlight can help you feel better by triggering the release of serotonin, a neurochemical that helps regulate mood. A lack of sunlight plays a role in the development of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that affects millions of Americans, especially those who live in northern climates.

 

• Go on a media diet.

Exposing yourself to a constant barrage of upsetting news and anger-inducing headlines can take a real toll on your mood. To protect yourself, consider limiting your media consumption. Going on a three-month news blackout is neither responsible nor necessary. Instead, set reasonable limits, like checking news only once or twice a day or switching off the breaking news alerts on your phone.

 

• Seek help if you need it.

If you’re having trouble coping, don’t be ashamed to ask for help from a licensed mental health provider.

 

• For 24/7 emergency support, contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-TALK (8255).