Seasonal Depression: Navigating the Winter Blues

"In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer." — Albert Camus

As we move closer to the colder months, the days get shorter, the nights darker, and the temperatures drop. While some of us welcome the cozy winter evenings, for others, this season can trigger a familiar feeling—seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

This time of year, I often find that many of my clients struggle with the emotional toll of the long, dark days and the cold weather. As a therapist, I’ve noticed that the shift in seasons can cause people to feel more isolated, unmotivated, and even disconnected from their daily lives. This experience is incredibly common, and you are not alone if you find yourself feeling down when the sunlight starts to fade.

I can personally relate to this as well. A few winters ago, I found myself feeling unusually low, more fatigued than usual, and generally unmotivated to do the things I usually enjoy. At first, I chalked it up to being busy and stressed, but after reflecting on how I felt during previous winters, I realised that it was the seasonal shift that had crept in. The darkness seemed to drain my energy, and the cold made it hard to get out of bed some mornings.

For many people, these feelings are intensified when the sun starts setting in the middle of the afternoon. The early darkness can lead to a drop in mood and energy levels, leaving people feeling more lethargic and withdrawn. The lack of sunlight plays a big role here, as it can disrupt our natural body rhythms and reduce serotonin production—the “feel-good” hormone that helps stabilise our mood. The cold weather can also make us less likely to go outside, reducing the chances of getting fresh air or physical activity, which are essential for our mental health.

In my practice, I see clients who often describe feeling overwhelmed by the gloominess of the season. They talk about losing interest in things they once enjoyed, struggling to stay motivated, and even experiencing difficulty in their relationships. As a therapist, my role is to help guide them through this challenging time and offer strategies to manage the seasonal blues.

That said, winter isn't all doom and gloom. Even though the season brings challenges, we do have moments that lift our spirits. With holidays like Halloween,Christmas, , and New Year's approaching, there are opportunities to reconnect with loved ones, reflect on the year, and share in festive traditions. These moments of celebration can serve as a reminder that there’s joy to be found, even in the darkest months.

For anyone who feels like they're battling seasonal depression, I always recommend focusing on small, intentional actions that promote well-being. Whether that’s taking short walks outside to catch what little sunlight is available, practicing mindfulness, or making time for loved ones, these little steps can help ease the heaviness that winter brings.

Remember, you don’t have to go through this season alone. Whether you reach out to a therapist, confide in a close friend, or simply acknowledge what you’re feeling, taking that first step to care for your mental health is a victory in itself. We all deserve to experience peace and joy, no matter the time of year.