As winter season approaches, many Australians grapple with feelings of gloom and lethargy. The winter season can be especially challenging when it comes to mental health, and the shorter days and colder temperatures can seriously impact our mood. If you’re struggling to beat the winter blues and maintain your mental health, here are five effective tips to help you stay positive throughout the colder months.
1. Embrace natural light
Limited exposure to natural light during winter can contribute to feelings of sadness and lethargy. There’s even a scientific term for it: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), causing some people to feel less energetic and cheerful during the colder months. To help avoid this feeling, get as much exposure to natural light as you can by opening curtains and blinds during the day, and spending time outdoors, even on cloudy days, to soak up some much-needed vitamin D.
2. Stay active
Regular exercise is an important part of maintaining mental health during the colder months. Even as little as just two hours a week spent exercising in nature helps release endorphins and boost overall wellbeing. Resist the temptation to stay inside when it turns colder and stay active to positively impact your mental health. Join a winter sports club, go for walks, or sign-up for an in indoor activity like yoga or dance to stay active and help lift your spirits.
3. Socialise and connect
Loneliness and isolation tend to worsen the effects of the winter blues, which is why it’s so important to maintain social connections at this time of year. To help combat feelings of loneliness, reach out to friends, family and co-workers, and find ways to spend time with supportive people. Plan activities such as game nights, potlucks, or movie marathons to stay connected.
4. Practice self-care
Spending time on activities that relax and rejuvenate can help you beat the winter blues. Choose creative outlets like painting or drawing, read a good book, or practice meditation to help alleviate stress. Maintaining a healthy diet by incorporating nutritious options into all your meals is also important. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are mood-boosters, while fruit, vegetables and whole grains provide essential nutrients that support mental wellbeing.
5. Get professional help if you need it
If you find yourself struggling with persistent feelings of sadness, lack of motivation, or other symptoms of depression, reach out for professional help. Contact a mental health professional who can provide guidance, support, and the appropriate treatment you need to help you get through the challenges of the winter months.
Beat the winter blues and stay mentally fit
Winter can be a season of gloom and despair for many people. But it doesn’t have to be. By actively focusing on getting outside every day, regularly exercising, connecting with your support system, eating a healthy diet, and asking for help when you need it, you beat the winter blues.
For mortgage and financial advice tailored to your unique circumstances and lifestyle, contact the team of mortgage brokers at Mortgage Express. Whether you’re a first home buyer, looking to upgrade or downgrade, or considering property investment, we provide expert advice at every stage of the home buying journey, helping you navigate the mortgage process with confidence and ease.
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