Are you worried you might have Seasonal Affective Disorder? Hello, lovely readers! This post will hopefully shed some light on what it really means to have the ‘winter blues’ and what you can do to combat them. Or help maintain a sense of well-being if this is something you’re concerned about.
As a counsellor and mental health professional – and very much human, I understand that the winter months can bring about a sense of gloom. The nights get darker earlier, and it’s typical to hear complaints about the weather! Everything can get a little bit glum. The lack of sunny, warmer weather can really turn everything a little bit gloomier, darker, both physically and metaphorically. Where I’m from, in Essex, I’m only a short drive from the Southend seafront, and the contrast along the front when walking in the cold, greyer days compared to sunny coffee walks in the summer is quite noticeable. Do you notice a difference near you?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as the Winter Blues, is a common struggle for many in our area. But the good news is that there are effective ways to manage your mood during this challenging time. In this blog post, I’ll share five essential strategies that can help you combat SAD and bring some sunshine back into your life. Or at the very least, keep things moving along during these darker winter months when you may find yourself feeling low.
I know that there is no magic wand – but knowledge is power, and action is excellent. One of the cornerstones of the person-centred approach is that awareness is a facilitator for change.
5 Ways to Manage Your Mood or Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Embrace the Power of Exercise
Exercise is an excellent way to combat the Winter Blues. It may be tempting to hibernate during the colder months, but staying active can make a world of difference in improving your mood. Consider the following options:
- Indoor Workouts: If you’re not a fan of the cold, you can enjoy the benefits of exercise from the comfort of your home. Try yoga, pilates, or even dancing to lift your spirits and reduce stress.
- Outdoor Adventures: Southend-on-Sea is a beautiful place to explore, even in winter. Bundle up and take a brisk walk along the seaside, or try your hand at cold-water swimming if you’re extra brave. The fresh air and endorphins can work wonders for your mood. (You won’t catch me swimming personally, but I do love a walk!)
- Nurture Your Social Connections
Isolation is a common symptom of SAD, but staying connected with friends and loved ones can help alleviate the loneliness and sadness that often accompany this condition. Here’s what you can do:
- Book something in the diary with a friend or family member – this also gives you something to look forward to and can help motivate you through tough days/weeks!
- Virtual Gatherings: If cold weather makes in-person meetings challenging, consider hosting virtual get-togethers with friends and family. Socialising via video calls can provide a much-needed emotional boost. It also helps to make this more accessible.
- Join a Club or Group: If you’re local to me, Southend itself offers a variety of clubs and social groups. But you can often find ideas on local community pages using social media, or on notice boards in libraries and supermarkets. Whether it’s a book club, art class, or a hobby-related group, engaging with like-minded individuals can brighten your days and provide a sense of community.
- Find Joy in Volunteering
Volunteering is not only a fulfilling way to give back to your community, but it can also combat the Winter Blues by giving you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It can also help with that social element and widen your own support network at the same time.
Here’s how you can get started:
- Local Charities: Southend-on-Sea has numerous charitable organisations that are always in need of volunteers. Choose a cause close to your heart and offer your time and skills to make a difference.
- Seasonal Projects: Consider participating in winter-specific projects, such as helping at food banks, supporting older people, or contributing to local holiday events. Your involvement can be a source of warmth and happiness for you and those you help.
- You may wish to look at the Southend Volunteer Hub for local opportunities.
- Light Therapy: Soak in the Sunshine
Lack of sunlight is a significant trigger for SAD, but you can fight back with light therapy. Here’s how to make the most of this effective treatment:
- Light Boxes: Invest in a light therapy box that emits artificial light mimicking natural sunlight. Use it daily, especially in the morning, to regulate your circadian rhythm and boost your mood.
- Get Outside: Whenever the sun does make an appearance, make an effort to soak it up. Even on cloudy days, outdoor exposure to natural light can benefit your mental well-being. Have a coffee outside, take a short walk, get out in the garden and tidy up, anything helps!
- Seek Professional Support
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the winter blues can be overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to contact a professional counsellor like myself, or consult your GP. They can provide tailored guidance, assess whether you are affected by seasonal affective disorder, and, if necessary, discuss treatment options such as therapy or medication.
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Conclusion –
Southend-on-Sea, Essex, is a wonderful place to live, but the Winter Blues can cast a shadow on our lives. By incorporating exercise, nurturing your social connections, finding joy in volunteering, embracing light therapy, and seeking professional support when needed, you can effectively manage Seasonal Affective Disorder and welcome a brighter, happier winter. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are always resources available to help you through the challenging times. Here’s to a season filled with warmth and light!
Post updated 15/12/2025