Oftentimes, people who live with a disability or who have mobility issues get a case of cabin fever in the winter. Colder, inclement weather makes getting out more difficult, and thus, people sometimes find themselves “stuck inside” with the winter blues.
Here are a few tips from Nurse Linda for ways to keep the winter blues at bay during the colder months of the year.
Socialize
“One of the most common approaches to relieving your winter blues is to be with people,” says Nurse Linda. Invite some people over to hang out. You can have a potluck or a game night with family and friends. If getting together in person isn’t an option, you can always reach out via telephone.
“Telephoning someone, even just for a few minutes to see how they are doing is helpful and builds relationships.”
Connect Virtually
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation has a peer program where you can connect with others with similar interests and needs. Of course, always be aware and cautious when connecting with others online as Nurse Linda says “there are so many predators ready to befriend and prey on your loneliness. However, sticking with well managed sites can be beneficial.”
Take Up a Hobby
Spending more time indoors often means you have more time on your hands. Now is a great time to try a hobby. Try exploring a topic you’ve always been interested in. Or come up with something brand new.
“History, art, film, local points of interest in your community, games or any type of activity that peeks your curiosity can become a source of expansion for your personal growth. I think every topic known to mankind has a specialty club or following that will open your world to people with the same interest as you.”
Volunteer
“Volunteering for organizations can lead to telephoning others, writing cards, or other activities that will help you connect to a larger group,” says Nurse Linda. “Churches, philanthropic organizations, veterans groups, and others welcome participation and activities that can be done at home.” Look up an organization that interests you and contact them to see what at-home volunteering opportunities they have available.
Warm Up
For a little pick me up, try soaking in some sun from the comfort of your home.
“Letting the sun rest on your skin helps the body manufacture hormones which can affect your mood. Ten to twenty minutes with a little sunshine on your face, even just a slight sunshine, can improve your mood by increasing the hormone production in your body.”
Share this with someone who needs a pick-me-up this winter!