As the days get shorter and winter closes in, many people feel like hibernating. We start sleeping more, eating more and avoiding social contact. The effects can be particularly oppressive for people with depression, many of whom feel escalating dread as the end of daylight saving time approaches. Here are eight ways to keep the black dog at bay after you turn back the clocks.
8 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues
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Depression can worsen fears of social rejection, causing you to avoid social occasions. But social support is one of the most important factors for recovery from depression and for avoiding relapse. So try to go out even when you don't feel like it: make a commitment to do a certain number of social activities each week and stick to it. Once you've forced yourself to get out, the dread of socializing typically eases and you'll often find that you're having a surprisingly good time. Remind yourself of this the next time you feel the urge to stay home. And be aware that depression can cause you to be oversensitive to social slights that may not have been intended. If you think someone has rejected you in some way (for example, a colleague failing to say hello to you in the hall), try to consider alternative explanations for the incident (she was preoccupied with concerns over her imminent meeting with a boss) and avoid overreacting or ruminating on depressing thoughts. If you find yourself unable to enjoy social situations that used to give you pleasure, you may need to seek additional help. This is a symptom of depression called anhedonia, which often requires medication or other professional treatment to lift. MORE: Friends with Benefits: Being Highly Social Cuts Dementia Risk by 70%
