Between the cold weather and shorter days, the nostalgia of ending the holiday break, and the pressure of New Year’s expectations and goals, January can create a perfect storm for the winter blues. It is extra hard to get out of bed when it’s -20 degrees and pitch dark outside. In response, we want to bundle up indoors, which leads to us being less physically active and social— two elements that are important for our mental health and well-being. 

Exploring the Origins of Blue Monday

Blue Monday has become widely recognized, especially in Canada. It is often dubbed “the saddest day of the year.” Beginning originally as a marketing stunt by a travel agency, Blue Monday has resonated with many people and has since gotten lots of attention. While there is no scientific evidence to support it, it’s hard to deny that certain days during winter can feel particularly sad or challenging. Although our low feelings may not be about a specific day, talking about Blue Monday does raise awareness of those dreary days and the difficulties that may come with this winter season. Acknowledging and addressing these feelings is key to navigating the winter blues.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Sometimes, individuals may experience persistent and debilitating feelings of depression during the winter months. These feelings can go beyond the winter blues and might mean that they are experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is considered a subtype of depression. SAD typically involves recurring episodes of depression that occur in a seasonal pattern, usually coinciding with winter.

Symptoms of SAD

Do you notice persistent feelings of sadness or depression during the winter months? These symptoms could signal SAD. Common symptoms of SAD may include:

• Reduced energy
• Changes in weight and appetite
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty making decisions
• Intense sadness or frequent crying
• Social isolation

Tips for Managing SAD

Being aware of your feelings during these winter months can help you take action to care for your mental health. To manage SAD, you might consider:

• trying light therapy
• changing your diet
• spending more time outdoors.

You can also explore these blogs, which feature different tips for managing SAD and resources for coping with seasonal changes.

Finding Support and Addressing SAD Symptoms

If these SAD symptoms resonate with you and are impacting your daily life, know that you are not alone! Various professional resources and helplines are available for guidance and support.

You can learn more about the symptoms, treatments, and myths surrounding SAD in the Mental Health and Wellness section.