As summer fades and autumn blossoms, we often find ourselves on the cusp of change. Days grow shorter, temperatures dip, and the warm, sunlit summer days are behind us. For many, this transition into fall and winter can evoke a complicated emotional response. While some embrace the season’s cozy charm, others feel an unmistakable weight on their mental well-being. This seasonal change can be particularly challenging, as highlighted by staff at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.), who report an uptick in calls for support as the year winds down.
“It’s the general sense of just not feeling good and having a lot of hard time with feeling depressed and anxious. It just intensifies this time,” observes Jana Burns, a peer support worker with CMHA. The stark reality is that as daylight diminishes, outdoor activities wane, leaving many feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
Get Outside When You Can
Climate change affects not only our environment but also our mental health. To combat these feelings, Burns advocates for simple yet effective strategies to safeguard mental health as winter approaches. One of the primary recommendations? Get outside whenever possible.
“Just getting yourself outside in the daylight during the daylight hours is super helpful,” notes Burns. Exposure to natural light has been shown to boost mood and alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). For those seeking an alternative solution, Burns suggests light therapy lamps, which are conveniently available for borrowing at public libraries throughout P.E.I.
Island Morning7:40Tips to protect your mental health as the days get darker
Jana Burns shares tips for mental health care during the darker months.
Staying Active
Another crucial aspect of maintaining mental wellness during colder months is keeping active. “I think people get frightened by the term exercise, assuming it involves rigorous workouts,” says Burns. “But it doesn’t have to be. Simple activities like yoga, stretching, or even taking a leisurely walk can have profound effects.”
Kailea Switzer, a counseling therapist from Charlottetown, concurs. Staying physically active becomes even more essential as cold weather sets in. “We know movement regulates our mood and energy, even when the outside world feels tiring,” she explains, emphasizing that walking while listening to music or doing simple stretches can create internal energy.
Embracing the Season, and Each Other
Despite the challenges this time of year brings, Burns believes that motivation can often be found in social connections. “Cozy activities can be a great way to stay connected. Watching a show together, playing board games, or sharing a warm drink can provide comfort during tough times,” she suggests.
Switzer echoes this sentiment, stating that embracing the season rather than resisting it can lead to more positive experiences. “Instead of wishing for summer, try to adopt an open approach to winter,” she recommends. This could mean investing in snow gear, exploring local winter sports, or hunting for the best hot chocolate on the Island.
“Anything that helps you shift from merely surviving winter to experiencing it can uplift your spirits,” she adds.
Reach Out for Help
Recognizing withdrawal or feelings of anxiety is vital, especially in the colder months. Switzer encourages early intervention, suggesting that reaching out to friends or therapists can be transformative. “Don’t wait until it gets too difficult to engage; doing so when you notice changes can make all the difference,” she advises.
Burns emphasizes the supportive role that the CMHA plays in the community. “Our services are here to support Islanders during these challenging times,” she says. The organization offers a peer support program, allowing individuals to connect with staff who have lived experiences with mental health or addiction issues.
This peer support initiative is non-clinical and emphasizes a safe, confidential space for individuals to connect and share experiences. Additionally, the CMHA offers support groups and family programs aimed at fostering community and healing.
For those seeking assistance, reaching out to the P.E.I. division of CMHA or visiting its website can provide valuable resources and support during these challenging months.
If you or someone you know is struggling, here’s where to get help:
