Many people get depressed during these many cloudy days of winter and may suffer from “the winter
blues.” Sometimes we can go for days without seeing the sun. The medical name for a more severe case
this winter depression is “seasonal affective disorder” (SAD). I am not a doctor or a psychologist, so if
this is a serious problem in your life, please check with a medical professional.
Today I’d like to share four tips on how to beat the winter doldrums. This information pertains to all
ages, but a lot of seniors live alone or are more prone to this during this even more isolating time of
year.
Obviously, the number one tip is “GET THE HECK OUT OF HERE!” But realistically, we all can’t leave for
the winter, or take three Caribbean vacations during the winter months. So, perhaps a few more
practical tips are in order.
The second tip is “SELF-CARE.”
There are the commonly mentioned fundamentals to self-care – getting enough sleep, eating healthy
foods, hydrating (drinking enough water) and getting exercise are always mentioned by medical experts.
These are the basics – the base line – for staying healthy year-round but become even more important
in the winter to combat the winter doldrums.
A few other ideas would be to invest in a sunlight simulator lamp or what I call “my happy light.” Or
treat yourself to a spa day. If you don’t want to spend the money – it’s fun to give yourself a spa day at
home.
The third tip is “SOCIALIZATION.”
One of the scientifically proven tips to beat the winter blues is more socialization. We know being
around people is important for everyone’s mental health, but it’s even more important for seniors to
avoid isolation.
I know I need to have something to look forward to. Be proactive – don’t wait for others to call you. Be
the instigator – reach out and schedule a coffee or lunch with a friend.
I was surprised to learn that the beautiful hotel in downtown Milwaukee – the Pfister Hotel – offers high
tea on their 23 rd floor on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. This unique experience is coupled
with a majestic view of Milwaukee and will certainly be something one can look forward to.
Reservations are required, so please book ahead.
I also suggest that it’s important to tell your loved ones to call. I think our kids don’t realize that seniors
need to chat on the phone or talk in person, texting just doesn’t do it. And so, you need to tell them
how important it is to you. Tell your loved ones you need to hear their voice – and often!
Tip #4 is “LEAN INTO SILLY OR SIMPLE THINGS…. OR SILLY AND SIMPLE THINGS”
There are many very simple, free activities that can help one get through our cloudy, foggy, dull winter.
They are simple or silly. And some are simple AND silly.
Help your brain realize that you are getting closer and closer to Spring. Have a “sticky notes
countdown” and pull a sticky note off your refrigerator each day as the first day of Spring approaches.
You can do the same thing for the first day the sun sets after 6 p.m.
It’s been scientifically proven that music elevates your mood. There are two stations in the free Pandora
app that are great for this – Happy Radio and Get Happy. Staying on the music theme, there is also
scientific evidence that humming for 10 minutes lifts your mood.
Learn something new – a new hobby, like playing the piano or something as simple as learning and
mastering a magic trick.
As a cat lover, who is allergic to cats and can’t have one, I go to the Humane Society and cuddle a kitty.
Instant mood lifter!
And my last suggestion would be to visit the Puelicher Butterfly Exhibit at the Milwaukee Public
Museum. You will be in a warm and humid rainforest and think it’s summer in Milwaukee as dozens of
tropical butterflies surround you.