How to Mind Your Mental Health This Autumn
Coming into these Autumn months can be tough for everyone.
Darker days, weaker immune systems and rainy weather can sometimes get the better of us. Many people suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) as we head towards winter. SAD is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same time every year.
If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the Autumn and continue into the Winter months, zapping your energy and making you feel moodier than usual. Always know you're never alone (supports linked below).
We would like to share our winter survival guide with you all, to help combat any blues.Take Vitamin D
Vitamin D is so important for your immune system as well as regulating mood and warding off depression. As many of you may know it as the "sunshine vitamin" it can prove quite difficult to get naturally during the Autumn months. We recommend taking a supplement such as the D3-Max Oral Spray by One Nutrition which is available on our website.
Eat well
A well-balanced diet is a major contribution to good mental health. Dark green leafy vegetables are proven to help to decrease the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Fatty fish is also amazing as they contain vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids which have been shown to decrease depression and improve mood.
Practice Wellness and Reflection
Taking time out of your day to dedicate to your physical and mental wellbeing is so important. Removing yourself from your hectic lifestyle for even just ten minutes can help your mental health majorly. Go for a walk or even try journaling to release any negative energy you could be carrying around. It's all about making small changes to make the wintery days more enjoyable.
Ask for help
If you've tried some of these options and nothing seems to be helping don't be afraid to reach out for help. Ask a friend, family member or neighbour if you could talk to them. If that's not possible there are so many helplines and support services out there you can avail of. Don't suffer through silence.
Every day is a new challenge and a new opportunity to find something that works for you. Be gentle with yourself.
- Jigsaw
- Pieta House Freephone 1800 247 247
- Aware Freephone 1800 80 48 48
- The Samaritans Call 116 123