As you know time rolled back over the weekend, which means it is going to get darker…quicker. I noticed around this time of the year moods can change. The holiday season is now in affect. And we reminisce on memories that may lead us to shedding a few tears. And I am writing to tell you that it’s okay. It’s nice to think of our loved ones and be able to cherish the memories we had with them.
It is also okay to not be in the same mood you were a few weeks back. The year is coming to and end, there are goals you may have obtained, or not. Following a boat load of other things that comes with life. Understand this YOU ARE HUMAN! You have emotions and you are not a robot, so please do not compete with big box companies or even AI at this point.
However those things are typical, but there are things that can be out of the ordinary and even scary for some people who experience a sense of sadness all the time. You know when you are not yourself, and your friends know it too. Listen to your gut and your friends if what they are saying is true. Do not be in denial. The one way you can help yourself is by being true to yourself and seeking the help that you need to pull you out of this space.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Let’s start with a definition: “SAD symptoms start in the late fall or early winter and go away during the spring and summer; this is known as winter-pattern SAD or winter depression.” - National Institute of Mental Health
Experiencing Change In Appetite. There’s one thing to go on a diet or some kind of weight loss journey, but there’s another concern when you or someone is not eating or minimizing eating on a consistent level. When I say minimizing I am meaning eating lower than the daily calorie intake. Your thoughts are always on something that is distracting you or causing you to not do the daily things one would typically do.
Social Withdrawal. I understand people take social media breaks, I actually encourage that and think that’s a good way to set up boundaries. But to withdrawal from friends and people who can pour positivity into you, that’s a red flag. Even when you social withdrawal there’s at least one or two persons you stay connected to, whether it’s in a form of text or phone call, there is some kind of communication. If you or someone you know finds themselves disconnecting from life longer than usual, they could be experiencing SAD.
Oversleeping. Now we all like to get our rest, and some days we do not want to get out of bed. Especially during those cold mornings. But at some point you are going to get out of the bed, start your day and something. If you find yourself in the bed with low mood and have no desire to do ANYTHING consistently…then SAD may be creeping at your door.
Difficulty Concentrating. Times like this it’s challenging to stay focus. I feel like we live in a world where we are moving faster than ever. I mean wasn’t it like January yesterday? I don’t know maybe it’s just me. However, if you are having challenges with staying focus and being consistent on minor task, like taking out the trash, washing up, doing dishes, etc. it’s time to have a talk and see where the lack of concentration is stemming from. The insight can be helpful for sure!
Thoughts of Suicide. No one should take this subject lightly. I think we are still in a world where people are afraid to talk about suicide. All because they think someone is going to go along with the plan. However, a thought can lead to an action, and it can be scary having those thoughts in your mind, alone. So if you are thinking about this be sure to reach out for support. Reach out to a close friend and be honest about your thoughts. If you are the friend who has concerns, reach out to that friend and be there, you may not know what to do, however your presence speaks volumes. Check on that friend, go to their house and help them, if their house is a mess, clean up for them. If their children needs to be picked up from school, coordinate that. Help out with the task that needs to be taken care of. Some people can be overwhelmed and do not know how to ask for help. While doing daily tasks for them, find support by contacting a therapist and seeing when their next available appointment is and connect your friend to that provider. Or if it is an emergency call 911 or 988. But be sure to find support and connect!
We all want to live a meaningful life. However life is tough. It does not always go as planned and we do not know how to handle it when life brings us alternatives were were not ready for.
Here’s What I Want You To Do!
Take a moment and write down your feelings for the next week. Pick a time each day and commit that time to write how you feel. Be honest with yourself and also write down why you feel this way. After a week goes by, read your journal entries and see where the pattern lies. It’s quite revealing and when we write our thoughts down, it allows us to process. For some it is a reflection in which can be rewarding in some ways.
If you are having issues receiving support in anyway check out one of our digital magazines or order a subscription and read up on all the support we provide.
Let me know how the activity goes for you in the comments. This can help someone who reads this blog. Let’s end the stigma one issue at a time by talking about it and finding ways to change!