I’ve discussed this with a few people on Twitter, but this year, I’ve been having a huge case of SADS (Seasonal Affective Disorder) aka winter blues. Some days, I wake up and don’t feel myself, I feel upset even though there’s nothing particular to be upset about.

Sometimes I feel like I really need to stay home and eat an entire bag of chips or two. Staying in suddenly seems more appealing than going out (to concerts which I love). But this sometimes leads to missing out on things which in turn leads to me feeling more depressed.

I found that the mood I wake up in generally dictates how I will feel for the rest of the day. I’ve been waking up a little earlier to make myself a coffee before heading to work. A relaxed mood on the commute (rather than a rushed one) really helps me to maintain sane for the rest of the day.

I’ve also pushed myself a little harder to go out. There are merits to staying in and doing hobbies I love too, but if I had previously planned to go see a show, I will make myself follow through on that plan. Oftentimes I feel like I don’t want to be there, but once I am, I never regret it. Having things to keep me busy keeps me from wallowing in SADS. This method may not work for everyone (or anyone else), but it works for me.

Have you been experiencing SADS? I’d love to know what you do to stay sane this winter.