It’s that time of year again. Clocks go back one hour on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2:00 a.m. The days are shorter and have less daylight. The colors of fall start to look less vibrant and change to brown. I’m not sure about you, but I can find myself feeling a bit sluggish, unmotivated, and a smidge blue this time of year. This can be a normal reaction, but this does not have to become your new normal.
This change in weather and time can lead to mood swings, energy changes, sleep disruptions, increased anxiety, additional stress, and/or seasonal depression. There are actions you can take to combat the effects of winter!
Get outside and enjoy daylight when possible
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
Make time for activities you enjoy
Stay connected with friends and family
Give yourself grace when your energy is lower
You may find yourself wanting to hibernate and turn inward during colder months. This is tempting and at times easier in the moment. Long term symptoms will continue to worsen if we isolate. Our connections and relationships are key to keeping up out of seasonal depression. We can acknowledging that socializing can feel difficult while also holding space for the discomfort of choosing to socialize regardless.
If you find yourself in this place of having a consistently low mood and anxiety, losing interest in things that you normally love, or struggling to manage your regular tasks, it may be time to reach out for additional support. Counseling can be a space to talk through how this time of year is impacting you as well as potentially what could be underneath the surface of your symptoms. Counseling can provide accountability and tangible tools to combat the winter blues.
You do not have to navigate this season alone! Please reach out if you would like to set up a free consultation to start your journey with counseling. My contact information is below!