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Despite the sun shining outside my window, February still felt damp, dark, and heavy. Short days, cold weather, and lingering snow showers reminded me that winter was still upon us, and so was my depression.
Unfortunately, for those of us who face depression year-round, it’s more than a seasonal case of the winter blues. It’s deep and never-ending. A burden that won’t lift, no matter how many bricks we throw off. Overwhelming and paralyzing. If this is you, it’s easy to feel alone. It’s even okay to feel low sometimes. But I promise you: You’re not alone in your suffering.
As the days drag into nights, February can seem never-ending. The good news? It’s only 28 days long. And by the beginning of March, brighter days will literally be upon us. Here are three practical ways to lift your mood and care for your mental health this February as you’re waiting for that light to arrive.
1. Get Outside
When we’re depressed, let’s be honest: the last thing we really want to do is get dressed, go outside in the cold, and let other people see us. Sounds awful, right? The reality is, even getting outside for 5-10 minutes can boost our mood, reduce stress, and calm anxiety. It’s not a quick-fix or magic solution, but it’s something that can help.
According to research, exposure to sunlight increases serotonin levels, which can improve your depressed feelings. Being in nature reduces the stress hormones we feel inside while also boosting our energy. So, going outside, even in the snow and ice, is a win-win.
If you’re willing to try it, I recommend three practical ways to do this:
- Bundle up in your warmest clothes and take a brisk walk. This could be alone, with a friend or spouse, or even your dog. Walk around your neighborhood or local park and look at nature.
- Open your blinds and sit near a sunny window or door. Even if you still don’t want to physically go outside, allow your body and soul to experience the warmth of the sun. When I’m feeling especially down, sometimes I’ll even lie on my floor with my dog and pull the curtains away from the big windows in our kitchen.
- Try mindful observation. You’ve probably heard of meditation, and while it isn’t for everyone, God can move through nature. Notice the bare trees, the birds, or winter textures. Feel the wind on your cheeks and the bite in your toes.
Getting outside, even for just a minute or two, can help us reset our mood. But don’t just believe me, take it from my best friend, Felicia.
When Felicia was 16, she first noticed the “ick” of depression. But it was actually on a snowy winter walk outside that she realized hope was possible. As she made snow angels in the earth below, she looked at the sun in the sky. Getting outside helped her realize if God cared for nature in this moment, He surely cared for her, too. And friends, He cares for you here and now!