Darrick Robles Many get in a bad mood in winter – even without Covid-19. The weather is depressing the mood, and the lockdown is also causing psychological stress. We have the winter blues and are tired of Corona. How do we get through this time healthy and relaxed?
What the pandemic is doing to us
We live in uncertain times. Studies show that the psychological consequences of the corona crisis primarily affect younger people. 20-40 year olds have been more stressed, anxious and showing increased signs of depression since the first lockdown . Pandemic concerns are particularly great in regions with a high number of infections.
But there is also good news. The crisis strengthens social cohesion : Many feel responsible for protecting risk groups and are willing to help neighbors in times of crisis.
Winter blues or winter depression?
The weather affects how we feel . Some get the winter blues : They have less energy , sleep more and get cravings for sweets . That in itself is not unusual. However, over time, the low mood can develop into winter depression — a form of relapsing (recurring) depression that occurs with the changing of the seasons.
Self-care is more important than ever
The corona virus does not make it easy for our psyche. Self-care can help ground us in these difficult times and overcome challenges. Those who learn to appreciate the good sides of winter will get through the lockdown better.
soak up daylight
In winter we get less daylight. Our body thinks it’s night and tends to release more of the sleep hormone melatonin. The result: we are tired all day long . You can prevent this winter fatigue by going out into the fresh air during the day. If you work from home , go for a walk in the park during your lunch break. At the weekend you can pack yourself up nicely and take a trip into nature .
To try something new
Before Covid-19, we could easily escape winter: in the cinema, at concerts, in the sauna or in the southern hemisphere. In the lockdown, our creativity is in demand – time for a crisis-proof hobby! Meditation can have a relaxing and anxiolytic effect, yoga classes are now taking place online – both work wonderfully at home. Winter is traditionally the best time for DIY projects, good food and good books. Many creative people also find inspiration in isolation.
make cozy
Create a healthy home. Ventilate regularly to keep the indoor air fresh and clean. Heat enough to keep you comfortable. A change of scenery can also do you good. Bring more comfort into your four walls – for example with candlelight, green plants, soft pillows and blankets. So you can enjoy the time at home more.
train resilience
Resilience means resilience. In psychology, it means the ability to cope with crises, to grow from them and to move on. Resilient people are better at dealing with stress and staying calm. They succeed in this through optimism and active stress reduction . Targeted downtime and physical fitness are good foundations for becoming more resilient in everyday life.
Don’t forget: it will pass
A Corona winter like this can be tough. But we’ll deal with it. We are all doing without things that mean a lot to us – so that we can enjoy more freedom again in the future. By reducing your contacts, you reduce the risk of infection for yourself and others: and that is the best thing you can do at the moment.
Get help when you need it
Have you been feeling down for weeks and have trouble getting up in the morning? These symptoms could indicate seasonal affective disorder (SAD) . In Central Europe, 8% of people are affected.
How to recognize winter depression:
- You feel powerless.
- You get irritated faster than usual.
- Your mood is depressed.
- There is nothing that can cheer you up.
- You have a great need for sleep.
- You can hardly get out of bed in the morning.
- You neglect your social environment and yourself.
Remember that the lines between a low mood and depression can be blurred. If the symptoms last longer than 2 weeks, you should seek medical advice. Our doctors are there for you to give you orientation, to advise you and, if necessary, to recommend a suitable therapy.
