Winter got you down?

Buffalo, NY – It’s cold and it’s been snowing nonstop. This time of the year can cause many to feel less motivated and even disengaged in everyday life. The behavioral health team at Jewish Family Services of WNY (JFS) is offering tips that can help boost your mood during these winter months.

“Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that often emerges during the fall and winter months when reduced daylight can affect mood, energy, and overall functioning,” said Dr. Katie Diebold, vice president of behavioral health and wellness programs, JFS. “For many people – especially those already carrying stress, grief, or trauma – this seasonal shift can feal heavier and more draining. Taking a moment to name and validate your experience as real can be an important first step.”

Some of the gentle coping strategies the JFS behavioral health team recommends include:

• Seek natural light. Sunshine provides vitamin D which can influence one’s mood. Open your curtains or blinds to let the winter sunshine in or spend time outdoors on a clear day. You can also try using light therapy, which mimics outdoor light.

• Find ways to move your body. Winter weather can bring down one’s energy levels. Whether it’s getting bundled up and going for a walk or a hike outdoors or doing laps indoors at a local mall can offset that feeling of restlessness.

• Keep routines simple and predictable. Having a regular routine can reduce both anxiety and stress, but you must be realistic about what works best for you and your family. Start with the basics like consistent times for meals, sleep or exercise, and add more when you’re comfortable.

• Know when to seek professional help. If symptoms begin to interfere with daily life, reaching out to a certified counselor is a meaningful act of care, not a sign of weakness.

JFS provides evidence-based, culturally responsive treatment and support to clients facing a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns. JFS serves clients starting at the age of five. Licensed clinicians utilize their expertise and ongoing, specialized training to address trauma, eating disorders, problem gambling, depression, anxiety, grief, and other issues related to emotional well-being. Appointments are available in person or via tele-mental health. For more details on the behavioral health services available at JFS, visit jfswny.org.