We’re used to terrible weather in
Britain, but the hand we’ve been dealt so far in 2020 seems particularly unkind.
The turn of the decade has brought two huge storms, followed by a splattering of soggy, unimpressive snow – and we’re not even through February yet.
Of course, our thoughts are with those across the country who’ve been impacted by the floods – but even in areas unaffected, the near-constant grey drizzle is taking its toll. We can’t be the only ones struggling to maintain a sunny disposition after yet another umbrella battle on the morning commute. Related... How To Up Your Breakfast Game Without It Feeling Like A Chore Stephen Buckley, head of information at mental health charity Mind, previously told HuffPost
UK many of us will experience mood changes in relation to the weather. “It’s not unusual to feel more cheerful when the sun is shining and the days are longer,” he said, “or to find that you eat more or sleep longer in winter.”
The impacts of long, dark days can feel particularly acute for people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). So how can you brighten your mood when the sun shows no signs of playing ball? Re-think the rainInstead of shaking an angry fist at the clouds, take a moment to appreciate their beauty as they swirl above your head, or listen, really listen, to the rain drops hitting the window. If you take a step back, it can be an enjoyable sound when you’re warm and cosy inside. You can’t change the weather, but practising mindfulness – being aware and present in the moment – may boost your mood.
“People undertaking mindfulness have shown increased activity in the area of the brain associated with positive emotion – the pre-frontal cortex – which is generally less active in people who are depressed,” according to the Mental Health Foundation. Wrap up and enjoy natureWhen it’s damp and cold, it can be tempting to hibernate inside, but numerous studies have linked getting outside in nature with improving mental health, even if it’s just for a quick walk.
The latest study on the topic, from the University of
Washington, suggests finding a “wild” spot reaps the biggest benefits – think overgrown forest, rather than a carefully crafted rooftop garden. “The wilder areas in an urban park seem to be affording more benefits to people,” said lead author Elizabeth Lev, “and their most meaningful interactions depended on those relatively wild features.”
Plus, winter walks may be a lot more enjoyable than you think. Related... A Filter-Free Ode To The Absolute Joy Of Winter Walks Help others to help yourselfNumerous studies have linked volunteering with improvements in mental health, suggesting that helping others has the added benefit of helping yourself.
If you’re feeling deflated when the weather is rubbish, make a plan to do something nice for someone else, or read HuffPost’s HumanKind section for an extra boost of community spirit. Get enough light in your dayWhether you’re experiencing SAD or a more general case of the winter blues, ensuring you’re getting enough light may help. Related... My Lumie WakeUp Light Has Transformed My Mornings (And Evenings) You could try light therapy, which involves using a light box or clock – such as a Lumi alarm clock – that mimics natural sunlight. It’s not fully known why sunlight appears to have such an impact on our mood, but Anxiety UK estimates that light therapy can improve symptoms of SAD for 80% of people.
If you don’t want to buy a light, try to sit near windows when you’re indoors (even if it’s grey), and make your work and home environments as light and airy as possible. Treat yourself No, a new top won’t bring the sun out, but it might brighten your day a little. As we approach the end of the month check out our recommendations for payday treats or pop to the supermarket and buy some daffodils for a quid. It’ll feel like spring in no time.READ MORE: Venting Can Be Damaging. Here's How To Do It Constructively 16 Ways To Practise Self-Care That Cost Next To Nothing 7 Questions Your Therapist Will Probably Ask During Your First Session Useful websites and helplines:Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393Samaritans offers a listening service which is open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK and ROI - this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill.)The Mix is a free support service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994 or email: help@themix.org.ukRethink Mental Illness offers practical help through its advice line which can be reached on 0300 5000 927 (open Monday to Friday 10am-4pm). More info can be found on www.rethink.org.