GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — It's the time of year when many people struggle to manage emotional health.
With days on end of frigid temperatures and snow, things can start to feel dreary, fast.
"Winter blues" can affect "10-20% of the population," according to Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS).
"The impacts of this can be physical as well as mental," said Dr. Kristyn Gregory, Medical Director for BCBS. "Some of the signs might include feelings of sadness, and that's from the drop in serotonin levels, interruption of regular sleep-wake cycles, leading to poor sleep, over eating, that carb craving that people often get in the winter on the holidays and a loss of interest in things one normally likes to do."
Even if it may not seem like the most desired thing, Gregory said getting outside in the winter can have great benefits on our mental health.
Vitamin D helps with "synthesis of a lot of our happy neuro chemicals in our brain."
Gregory suggests trying winter sports or even walking. Remember to bundle up and dress for the weather when outside in winter.
There are also indoor activities to boost serotonin levels.
"Exploring a new museum, or taking a day trip to a nearby town, check out the local sights and stores," Gregory said. "Couples could plan a date night, games inside."
If you have significant depression, severe sadness for more than two weeks, or significant loss of weight or appetite, talk to your doctor.
If you have thoughts of harming yourself, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 9-8-8.
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