Feeling “Blah”? Same. Let’s Talk Seasonal Depression.
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So, as I’m writing this, I’ve been feeling pretty blah. I don’t know if it’s the weather, the mix of my seasonal depression, or the mood swings that seem to pop out of every nook and cranny in my BPD brain. Either way, overall? Blah. It sucks. I don’t like it, and it can properly go find something else to do—or better yet, evolve into some happy-joy-joy feelings, pronto.
Thinking about it, I kind of know part of the reason. It’s the holiday season, which means gifts. I’m the type of person who loves making things for people. But honestly? I sometimes feel guilty for crafting gifts instead of going out and buying them. Like maybe I’m taking the “easy way out.” But deep down, I know that’s not true. Crafting something takes time, effort, and a whole lot of heart—probably more than grabbing something off a store shelf. It’s my way of showing love, and I’m learning to embrace that.
Now that my mini-outburst is out of the way, let’s talk seriously about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It’s a thing, and it’s rough. But there are ways to ease it, even when you’re feeling like a potato cocooned in a sherpa sweater and a blanket fort.
1. Try Special Light Bulbs
There are these fancy light bulbs and lamps that mimic sunlight, which can help combat the lack of natural light in winter. They’re a lifesaver, especially if you’re stuck in the Midwest like me, where daylight feels like a rare commodity. And yes, I know not everyone can afford them—trust me, I’m living that paycheck-to-paycheck life, too. But if you can, they’re worth it, especially for third-shift graveyard workers or anyone feeling that winter slump.
2. Get Moving
Even when I want to stay couch-bound under a pile of blankets, I remind myself to move. My hypermobility means stiff joints if I don’t, so I’ll put on a dance playlist or play a video game that gets me up and moving. Trust me, it helps. Moving your body is like flipping a switch for your mood. Plus, it’s fun to throw a solo dance party and pretend no one’s watching.
3. Take Your Vitamins
Did you know that many people in the Midwest are vitamin D deficient? My doctor clued me in and recommended taking a double dose of Vitamin D3. This deficiency is largely due to our long winters and countless overcast days. Between November and February, we barely get enough sun to meet our needs.
My therapist also suggested adding Triple Magnesium Complex to my routine. Turns out, people with mental health challenges—like mine—are often short on magnesium. In fact, lower magnesium levels in individuals with BPD can contribute to irritability and anger outbursts.
Taking vitamins has helped me a lot, but it’s important to check with your healthcare provider before starting anything new. Trust me, you don’t want to have an “oops” moment like I did when I hopped on the Garcinia Cambogia bandwagon and ended up with acute liver toxicity. Learn from my mistakes, friends—your body will thank you.
4. Stick to a Sleep Routine
I know—it’s easier said than done. But keeping a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, can help regulate your internal clock and boost your mood. Quality sleep has a way of making everything feel a little less overwhelming.
Me? I’m usually a midnight-to-1 a.m. kind of person on a good day, but I still get up at 7:30 for the kiddos. If I feel the need to balance things out with a quick nap during the day, I don’t hesitate to take one. Sleep is crucial—even for the average bear.
And hey, if you’re feeling so fatigued that sleep seems like the only answer, let yourself rest. As long as you’re not skipping out on essentials like work, caring for yourself, or looking after your kids, go ahead and catch those extra z’s. Sometimes, listening to your body is the best thing you can do.
5. Lean on Your People
Seasonal depression makes you want to isolate, but reaching out to friends or family can make a big difference. Whether it’s texting a friend, making plans for coffee, or hopping on a video call, connecting with others can help combat those winter blues.
I’m lucky to have a Discord server where I found my people. Even though I don’t talk to them as much as I used to, I try to send daily snaps. Keyword: try.
Cabin fever isn’t just something I learned from the creepy, spoopy movie Cabin Fever. When I lived in Alaska (2003–2006), I saw firsthand how it can mess with your brain. So, don’t forget to check in with your people. Even a quick hello can make a world of difference.
Seasonal Depression Sucks, but You’ve Got This
SAD is no joke. It sneaks in when the days are short and the nights are long, but you can take steps to push back. Whether it’s trying a sunlight lamp, getting your body moving, taking your vitamins, or leaning on your support system, every little bit helps.
And hey, if this post helped or resonated with you, consider sharing it with someone else. Word of mouth matters, and I’d love for more people to join the conversation. Also, if you want to support my work, check out my affiliate links or drop a donation via Cash App or Venmo. Every little bit helps me keep this blog going!
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