Feeling Blue?

Feeling Blue?

We know this time of year can be difficult a combination of post-Holiday blues, cold dark nights and fewer hours of daily sunshine, and the arrival of snow…

Here are some ideas to fight those cold winter blahs.

Reach out to a friend, family member or loved one you’ve been meaning to connect with – a simple phone call, or share a warm cup of tea is surely to brighten both of your days.

Physical activity can be a great way to improve your mood. Ever noticed how beautiful the snowflakes look this time of year? Bundle up with warm gloves, a toque, warm jacket and head out for a walk – it doesn’t have to be far – just enough to enjoy the crisp air and take in the snowflakes. If you experience barriers to physical activity, try talking to your doctor or care team for ideas.

Find your Zen – Practices like yoga, meditation, mindfulness, prayer, or breathing exercises can help you quiet your mind. With time, these practices can help you manage your response to low mood.

Laughter just might be the best medicine – so why not plan something you enjoy – making time for hobbies, sports, or activities that you find fun or make you laugh can temporarily give you a break from these gloomy days.

Colouring books aren’t just for kids – getting in touch with your artistic side whether that means colouring books, painting or taking on a crafty art project can definitely have calming benefits and brighten your day with bright colours bouncing on the page. So get out those pens, markers, paints of crayons and let your imagination soar.

Add to your Toolkit – This might be the perfect time to increase your awareness and knowledge about mental health, addictions and stigma reduction. CMHA Peel Dufferin offers Wellness training and workshops staffed by knowledgeable and experienced professionals to give you tools you need to continue educating yourself.

Some things are better with a group – CMHA Peel Dufferin offers Mental Health Recovery West drop-in groups, activities and vocational services with a focus on peer support. Drop-ins are welcome from 4:00 – 8:00 Tues-Fri and Saturday 12:00 – 4:00.

Whether you choose to listen to music, dance around your living room, read a good book, go for a walk, see a friend, watch your favourite movie, paint or do whatever makes you feel good… having a plan of activities to choose from and friends, family or supports to reach out too, can give you a little mental distance from problems on these cold winter days and nights.

Remember if you find yourself really struggling 24.7 Crisis Support Peel Dufferin is here to support you and your loved ones should you have trouble coping over Winter Season. Please call 905-278-9036 or 1888-811-2222 for support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.