H.A.L.T.!!
Winter blues strike some harder than others. If you’re feeling “gray” or down, remember to do some basics to help yourself and H.A.L.T.!
H.A.L.T. stands for, never become too:
H – hungry
A – angry
L – lonely
T – tired
Make sure that even if your appetite is low, you’re putting good fuel in your body, even if it’s eating small meals of healthy snacks throughout the day. No food in your body can make you feel even more sluggish.
Being stuck inside can make some people irritable. If you notice a spike in anger or irritability, do something to get your feelings out. Here are a few ideas:
-free flow write all that you’re thinking and feeling, the good and the bad
-vent to a trusted friend
-do something physical like exercising, hitting a punching bag or just your pillow
-layer up and get outdoors to get some fresh air, expose yourself to some Vitamin D; exercising outdoors can be particularly helpful
If you notice you feel like isolating, strike a balance between “down time” where you are alone and being social. Take people up on social invites, even if you don’t feel like going. Usually, by the time you get there, you’ll be glad you went.
If you’re feeling more than occasional winter blues, see a doctor or therapist to see if your symptoms are akin to clinical depression. There are many treatment options to get you back to feeling to like yourself again.
-Heidi Page, MSW
Mental Health Counselor
https://www.fullspectrumwellness.com/heidipage.html
