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Banish the winter blues

Posted on 4 January 2021

Short, dark days getting you down?

Banish the winter blues

This time of year can be difficult at the best of times, not least during a worldwide pandemic. The NHS estimates that the winter blues, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), affects around two million people in the UK - so you’re not alone.

Tips for beating winter depression

1. Get some daylight

It’s thought that the winter blues are caused by your body’s reaction to a lack of daylight - so go outside, especially at midday when light levels are at their highest, and sit by a window when you’re indoors. If you're in York you could explore campus - visit campus landmarks, view art on campus, walk the solar system, check out the campus tree trail and record wildlife sightings on campus! 

2. Get up and about

Exercise has been shown to improve mood so now could be the time to take up a new activity. Browse YouTube for yoga or fitness videos or zumba it up with Mariana. 

3. Get warm

Being cold can make you depressed. Wear warm clothes, eat hot food and drink that coffee!

4. Eat healthily

What you eat affects your mood. Try to resist sugary cravings and include more fruit and veg in your diet. You could also take vitamin D supplements.

5. Talk to someone

If you’re struggling, ask for help. See our help and support page for the wide range of people you can contact, including your college tutors. If you find your low mood affects your ability to live a normal life, contact your GP.

Health and wellbeing