How to Beat the Winter Blues

After the holiday music fades, parties come to an end, and lights are taken down, winter can feel particularly cold and dark.

Because it is. Literally.

According to the National Weather Service, the sun sets on Chicago before 5 p.m. nearly every day of January. Average temperatures are between 34 and 24 degrees.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness found more than half of people reported that the holidays contribute to feeling sad or dissatisfied, as well as financially strained. This feeling can spill over into the new year.

Acknowledging complicated emotions and creating a plan can help you through the toughest days of winter.

NOTE: This story originally appeared in North Shore Senior Center’s Engage Magazine and Lifelong Learning Catalog (January-April 2025) written by Desiree Schippers.

https://www.nssc.org/assets/uploads/2024/12/NSSC_2025_WinterMagazine_Final_web_103124.pdf

Manage Expectations

Every living creature that experiences harsh winters changes its behavior to survive the frigid months. Many mammals hibernate and put on layers of fat and thick fur to stave off the cold. Birds migrate, and plants go into energy-saving modes. If our non-human companions behave differently in winter, why should we expect ourselves to keep the same rigorous schedules?

A key strategy to being at peace during these times is to remove the pressures you feel to be at your most productive and to absolve yourself of any guilt or shame about not being your best self these months.

Flowers rarely bloom year-round! Give yourself permission to go to bed a little earlier, embrace more nights in, and adjust your routines to the season. Slow down and take time to enjoy little things, like your morning coffee or a warming soup.

Find Meaningful Connection

No matter your situation, winter can be lonely. Give yourself something to look forward to. Scheduling a February coffee date with a friend or dining at a special restaurant can provide a boost to help you through the long days of winter.

NSSC’s variety of clubs, classes, and programs make connecting with people easier. Peruse our winter opportunities to find something right for you!

If you prefer one-on-one connection, check out our Friendly Visiting program! Volunteers are paired with homebound older adults who are seeking companionship. Contact Julie Droste at 847.242.6257.

Light Up the Darkness

Lighting a candle or stringing up lights can offer a gentle mood boost. If you’re really missing the sun, explore options for light therapy or a household lightbox.

Bundling up and going outside for a few minutes to walk and feel the sun on your face can improve your mood and increase serotonin levels. Walking can provide more energy during the waking hours and help you sleep better at night.

Support is Available

While mild stress and “winter blues” are normal, feeling depressed every day, losing interest in daily life, or prolonged feelings of hopelessness are not. NSSC’s licensed counselors can help you feel like yourself again. To learn more, call 847.424.5672 or email counseling@nssc.org.

About North Shore Senior Center

Headquartered in Northfield, NSSC is a nationally accredited 501(c)(3) organization that serves older adults whether they are fully independent or in need of additional support. Offering a wide range of services including memory care programs, educational classes, and wellness activities,

NSSC provides a welcoming space to connect, learn, and build community. NSSC is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To learn more, visit www.nssc.org.