Wintertime can be stressful for many people. Shorter days can bring a decline in mental health and cause people to withdraw socially. Some people even experience seasonal affective disorder, also called ‘winter depression’. Not to mention that the holidays can be stressful by themselves. 

Eric Nelson is a Principal Broker and Finance expert who specializes in insurance products and financial services. He is a proud NAACP member and social justice advocate, and he is passionate about mental health. 

  • Go outside! This seems like such an obvious tip. In the winter, it is so easy to make excuses to not go outside. If you’re feeling low, think about the last time you went outside and got some sunshine. Humans were not designed to be inside manmade buildings all day, so bundle up and go out into nature. 
  • Don’t neglect your social life. Invite some friends on your winter walks. Even if you cant gather face to face, schedule some time to call your loved ones until you can get together. 
  • Keep a journal. It is extremely helpful to have a place where you can get all of your thoughts out of your head and onto paper. Writing in a journal will help you worth through negative thoughts and feelings. Try to write one thing in your journal every day that you are grateful for. This will help you focus on more positive things in your life.