Winter is coming: How to cope with the dreaded winter blues – Times of India, The Times of India

It is that time of the year again when the dark and gray skies have hijacked our lives and sunny skies have become a distant memory. With the Diwali festivity already behind us, gloomy winters bring the wrath of unwelcoming cold and a plethora of infections. So, in case you weren’t already irritated with the host of mosquito-borne diseases and the ever-persistent flu, chilly winter season may also cause a drop in your mood.

Keep your mental health in check this winter

A lot of people feel that the darky and gloomy winter season affects their mental health as well. The short, wintry days and long, bone-chilling nights wreak havoc on our bodies circadian rhythms. This internal process which regulates our sleep-wake cycle is thrown off by the absence of sunny mornings. Here are three smart ways you can beat the winter blues.
1. Soak in the sun (as much as you can)

Whether it is eating your lunch outside your office or taking a short break to go for a walk, make the most out of the sunlight that you can still see. You can also try working or even studying near the window to soak in some of the sun. Studies have linked vitamin D deficiency with depression and with the absence of sun exposure in winters, one of the major sources of vitamin D goes missing.

2. See your friends

As much as you want to curl up in your bed and sip on hot cocoa, we suggest stepping outside and meeting your friends. Socializing and getting out of the comfort of your home is one of the quickest ways of lifting your spirits. If you are unwell and don’t feel like stepping out, you can always ask your friends and family to come over for a quick get together.

3. Watch what you are eating

While it is natural to crave for comfort food during bone- chilling winter, we suggest otherwise. If you are feeling down and out, it becomes essential to keep a tab on what you are eating. Steer clear of sugar and fat-laden products. These products may prove to be a quick pick-me-up but the high you feel goes down just as quickly. So stick to fresh and healthy food items for a better mood.

The bottom line
If you do not seem to be getting any better even after following the above-mentioned tips, maybe it is time to consult a medical professional. It is equally important to connect with the people you love the most and discuss what you are going through. Ultimately, do not brush off your feelings by labeling it just winter blues and seek the help of your doctor.