When Summer & Fall passed, I knew the dark rainy days were going to give me trouble. I would like to know what you do that helps you during the Winter months??
Thanks,
Doug

Hi Duggie.

Music, candles, fires, coffee and hope.

Get out in the sun whenever it shines. When trapped indoors, drink hot coffee or tea, curl up next to a blazing fire with my dog, and work hard to divert my mind from negative thoughts.
Sheepwoman

I totally agree with Sheepwoman to get as much sun as possible. I even moved a rocking chair in front of my southern windows. My pdoc raised my anti-depressant some. I see every day as another day conquered and one less day to dread. I keep telling myself how the time will come soon and I will start feeling better. I reduce stressors and depression/anxiety triggers as much as possible. I work diligently at keeping myself busy and occupied.

Sum is important but keeping active is equally important. I usually join a bowling league during the winter to keep active. I also work in my workshop and on my classic car. It keeps me from going nuts.

Ditto to all compadres above who recommend activity! We are getting hammered with snow here in New England; so, it's time to get the cross country skies out! This year, I'm going to try snow-shoeing because I hear of great places to do so; far into the woodlands......
We got a huge snow storm yesterday and now today, the sun is out and it looks absolutely beautiful.
My opinion is the old-fashioned one; if you can't beat it, join it. Even if you try bundling up; putting on a good pair of hiking boots and walking; breath in the fresh clean air. It makes a world of difference. When you force yourself to climatize, the cold and winter don't seem so bad. In fact, you may come to enjoy it.
Take care!
Lucinda

Hey duggie how goes it? Well we don't get much rain here, but when I lived in Washington state where it rains much sometimes I would get a bit depressed, I just didn't know what it was. I look forward to the rain here since we don't much. Blessings Doug, your friend Frank

I dont mind winter
but must have sunshine

Now, I take Vit D3

walk walk walk
listen to new age music
soothing

aromatherapy
peppermint or bergamot smells divine


Chantilly

Frank,
It has been raining a lot since September. I have been doing good by faithfully walking every day since the beginning of December. Walking keeps my head on straight! I am also (first time) cooking my own meals every day and my diet is better. Visiting the DF is also helpful, because I get to talk to you and all the nice people here!
Take Care!
Doug

I leave for work when its dark and I get home when its dark, so that really sucks. No sunshine for me. No fresh air unless I go outside and freeze my butt off! I hate the winter. This is when I hit my worse, and this year has been the worst I can remember. My dad is the same way, although I think he's doing pretty well this year. At least my mom hasn't called venting.... I just bought a journal today!! I don't think diaries exist anymore. You know, the old fashioned lock and key kind...

Warmest wishes,
Lost in the Past

You can purchase special lighting to help with the winter months... I use lightbulbs that emulate sunlight... At one time I purchased a very expensive lamp specifically for SAD and it really helped...

Also agree w/ going outside, exercise, meditation

I grew up in Seattle so I COMPLETELY understand the grey skies, rain... when I moved to a sunnier place it really helped

This post has been edited by notjustfriends: Jan 20 2008, 09:50 AM