It appears like ages since we have seen the sun in Southwest Michigan.

Naturally, I am unable to find it now, but I saw a social media post from a neighborhood meteorologist that said it had been at the least 14 days since we, in SW Michigan, had seen the sun. I do not care how mentally “strong” you’re. Being under cloud cover for that long has an effect on each your mind and body.

The excellent news? The sun will eventually come back, even when it’s just peeking through the clouds.

Until then, it will be perfectly comprehensible and reasonable in case you’ve been combating your mental health. Possibly you have been sleeping more. Perhaps you have been feeling hopeless. Perhaps you have been feeling depressed. Speaking from personal experience, the sun disappearing behind the clouds is just the newest hurdle to beat. And, please, let this be a reminder that you aren’t alone.

In case you’re in search of a couple of ways to keep up or help your mental health in the course of the cold and infrequently cloudy months in Michigan, listed here are at the least 5 suggestions:

Before we start, I’ll say that the following pointers might feel generic, and, perhaps, you have seen them before. But, they do work. Even in the event that they’re annoying.

1. Get Outside and Exercise 

Runner tying sport shoes

blyjak

I do know. That is what everyone says. But, it really does help. Even in case you’re avoiding the outside as a consequence of snowfall or low temps, finding a technique to get your body moving helps your mental health. Personally, I commit to doing at the least 20 minutes of movement a day (something really helpful to me by my therapist). Sometimes it’s yoga. Sometimes, it’s just taking a walk.

Yes, it’s annoying. Yes, it really works.

Wish to explore the local preserves? Listed here are at the least 7 you possibly can take a look at year-round. Be prepared with heavy climbing boots or snow shoes do you have to visit within the winter:

7 West Michigan Nature Preserves You Can Visit Yr-Round

2. Stay Connected With People

Young woman using smartphone for video call

seb_ra

This one is simpler said than done.

As adults, our lives get very busy. And, in case you live distant from your mates, finding a technique to connect will be difficult. But, we live within the age of Facetime, Zoom, and other video chat apps. Benefit from them and reach out to your mates or family that you just’re missing. Even a ten-minute conversation can remind you that you just are loved and you’re supported.

3. Maintain Appointments for Overall Health

Doctor holding heart

AlexRaths

Again, I’m speaking from personal experience but, if you’re finding it hard to get away from bed keeping appointments like an annual physical, a dental appointment, and beyond becomes increasingly difficult. But, future you’ll thanks for maintaining those appointments.

Plus, your doctor might need some recommendations to aid you get through the Winter.

Speaking of…

4. Try Light Therapy 

In keeping with the Mayo Clinic, a light-weight box could help with Seasonal Affective Disorder. Nevertheless, they really helpful talking to your doctor about it first. In case you’re purchasing for a light-weight box to assist with depression, the Mayo Clinic also notes that the box should provide as little UV light as possible while also providing 10,000 lux of sunshine.

Learn more below:

5. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Woman writing in notepad at wood table

lolostock

CBT might sound complicated. But, in point of fact, it involves a pair of easy to-dos to assist your mental health.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a variety of treatment to assist people discover patterns of thought which have a negative influence on thoughts or behavior after which change those patterns. Would it not be higher to undergo this with a therapist? Probably. But, since there are individuals who cannot afford therapy, a couple of things you possibly can try are:

• Journaling. Getting your whole thoughts out on paper is usually a useful technique to reframe them or have a greater understanding of them
• Rest or Stress Reduction Techniques. This includes things like deep respiratory, meditation, and taking a moment to chill out the entire muscles in your body.

Again, I do know the following pointers is likely to be repetitive but, I’ve found that easy, baby steps toward helping my very own mental health really prove successful in the long term.

Yow will discover much more suggestions for helping your mental health through winter from lifespan.org.

 

In case you’re capable of, I highly encourage you to search out a therapist that may also help with even minor mental health struggles. It’s like a tune-up. Your automobile needs one. Your body needs one. Your mind needs one, too.

*In case you are struggling and wish immediate help, please call the suicide prevention hotline at 988.* 

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