There are few things the Northeast does as well as fall. But the season can be difficult for some people, as the shorter days and colder temperatures can cause feelings of depression and isolation, and exasperate existing mental health issues for some.
Dr. Michelle DiBlasi is Chief of Inpatient Psychiatry at Tufts Medical Center. She joinedThe common to share some tips on how to boost your mental health as we head into the colder months.
Tips & Tricks
Keep an eye out for warning signs of seasonal depression:
Dr. Michelle DiBlasi: “The greatest [warning signs] You start to feel a little more depressed, slower, perhaps sleeping too much, eating too much or eating less, and even have changes in your personality, such as feeling more irritable and anxious, having difficulty concentrate. Those are kind of the big things that you need to pay attention to. »
Make a conscious effort to stay connected with friends and family, especially if you’re new to the area and starting winter in New England:
DiBlasi: “My best advice to people is to really try to stay socially connected, especially if you’re new to the area, to stay in touch with old friends and family, and maybe start making some new friends in the area. Really make a conscious effort to stay socially connected.
“I think in the winter, especially, it’s easy to feel isolated, which can eventually lead to feeling even more depressed. So it’s really important to stay connected.”
Stick to daily routines and healthy living standards:
DiBlasi: “I think the most important thing actually comes down to the basics, which people usually don’t pay a lot of attention to. It’s about having good sleep hygiene, which basically means s ‘ensure you relax before bed and get a restful sleep at night. …And then eat healthy, because we often forget these kinds of fundamental things that really have a big impact on our mood.
“And then of course, doing things to help you relax, like I said, whether it’s exercising, doing meditation, listening to music, listening to a radio show, whatever. which does you good.”
Ask for help if you feel hopeless:
DiBlasi: “I think the time to ask for help is when you feel like you just can’t get out of this bad situation. You feel depressed, you start to feel desperate. You really can’t get through this. I don’t feel like I’m getting through this. Certainly, if you are considering ending your life, you should definitely seek help immediately. There are many resources in the emergency department, including the National Suicide Helpline, 988, which people can call for help immediately, especially in a crisis. »
Using lamps to combat seasonal affective disorder:
DiBlasi: “For seasonal affective disorder, they have lamps. They’re called light boxes that you can buy online or in stores. They actually give you an LED light, usually for about 30 minutes a day.”
“I would recommend using it first thing in the morning when you wake up. It basically resets your circadian rhythm, which is your body’s 24-hour clock, to give you more energy and help you. [combat depression]”.
Resources:If you or someone you love is feeling suicidal or experiencing another mental health crisis, you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis lifeline by phone call or text. You can also be connected to a vital call center by calling Massachusetts 211.
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