Seasonal affective-disorder, commonly known by its wonderfully evocative abbreviation of SAD, is associated with increased food intake, weight gain, lower energy and motivation and depressed mood.
Over the years I have noticed a trend- Usually starting sometime in October, where these changes start to manifest. The gears change and life slows down with the cold and dark becoming more prevalent.
What can be done when we experience a so-called ‘autumn-winter’ depression? Here are some things that not only help me cope with this time of year but have actually added value to my life in Copenhagen:
Acknowledging that you are struggling with the cold, dark, rain etc. whilst also leaning into the change in season. I often think “It can be both, we can feel both sadness at the brief, parting summer, and glad that the days are crisper, the leaves are turning, apple season is here!”. Similarly:
- Taking a leaf out of the “live in the season” handbook and embracing the shift to winter, think hibernation vibes, curling up at home with a book, getting an early night. I don’t know about you, but when I think of Hygge, the seasons that I conjure are autumn and winter, a.k.a Peak Hygge seasons.
- Creating guided imagery ‘vacations’, I do this towards the end of summer too, where I’ll watch a series or movie set in an upcoming or ‘opposite’ season. For example, I watched The bridge in the Australian summer, and Call me by your name in the Danish winter.
- Be prepared with all weather gear- it makes such a big difference.
- Take vitamin D
- Think about investing in a wake-up lamp
- Connect with people, friends, family, even if they are far away. We all love to know that someone we care about is thinking of us.
- Take the time to make warming, nutritious food. Even better if this is a favourite from your homeland.
- Sauna/ steam rooms or just an ‘everything’ shower at home