Seasonal Mental Health Check-In

Sometimes by default Summer can be a great thing for anyone who deals with mental health. One of the reasons is that Summer is filled with more care free moments. This doesn’t mean Summer will make someone immune to issues. When the Seasons change from Summer to Fall it can signal to people that play time is over. The signal also means that colder weather is on its way paving room for Seasonal Depression.

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Everyone is Different

Remember that when your engaging others about mental health. Some people’s seasonal depression may come in the Winter. Others start in the Fall. There are some who feel that their depression never takes a break and feel the hit all year long. No matter where you fit with issues of anxiety or depression, know you’re not alone.  According to Psychology Today, 10 million Americans deal with seasonal depression. That is quite a large number. So with that how can we find ways of knowing our needs and finding a plan that works.

Buddy System

I know this sounds like a page out of a Kindergarten class but it’s not. Having at least one person that you check in with is key. I have a friend who we check in constantly all year round but specifically a lot more during the colder months. We both suffer from Seasonal Depression. We ask questions that most wouldn’t ask. Feel free to use or add your own. Asking questions that are deeper than a yes or no is key. Simply asking if they are okay may not be enough. The goal is to ask and discuss.

• How are you really feeling?
• Did you go outside today?
• What are you stressing over?
• How can I assist you in getting better?

Getting an Outdoor Plan

When the Fall hits, I usually have to go to the Pumpkin Path at least once a month. Although there’s fun in going its more about, getting fresh air and being in an environment that makes me happy and safe. Define your outdoor space. Find places that are practical for you to get there and indulge. 15 minutes a day is enough to help boost your mood even in the rain. Use an umbrella when its safe to do so and get outdoors.

Being Honest

Having an honest assessment of your needs is key. What are you lacking to aid in good mental health. Sometimes it was therapy. Other times it was changing the circles I was around. There was one year where I needed to increase visiting my home town because certain scents, foods, are unique. Whatever it is get some of it. I like to decorate my house for the Fall. Fall is one of my favorite seasons. Having the house decorated made me smile. This year I kept my tree up all year round. I noticed at points when I would be experiencing a depressive mood, it took me too long to switch over the decorations. The second I got back into it my mood changed for the better. Find your thing. Try a few things until you find it.

Inform those Closest to You

This doesn’t mean everyone should know what you are going through. If you have a roommate, a spouse, loved ones in your immediate circle please inform them especially if you feel safe. I had to have candid conversations with my husband about what it looks and feels like for me during the switch over in a new season. It wasn’t always easy to talk to him and feel supported in the way that I needed it. Listen to the podcast as we talk about mental health and relationships. You only need at least one person in your corner, it changes everything in how you heal and deal.

Overall Wellness

One of the things that you will notice if you deal with Seasonal Depression is that you lose interest in things. Find ways to maintain good eating habits, exercise, and stay around the things that you love. Often times when you aren’t intentional in general upkeep of your body and mind, that’s a door way for increased issues. You may not be able to stop all bouts of depression but you can certainly try to decrease them. Take good care of yourself. Self care is important as a daily reminder of how loved you are. Love on you. Take care of you. Eat well. Drink water. Get good rest.

Be aware of yourself as seasons change. You are your greatest asset. Don’t be afraid to put the time in to getting what you want out of your life. You want to be as grounded as you can. So be aware of the moments that you generally aren’t. Develop a plan of action that you need.