Springing into Wellness: 5 Ways to Combat Seasonal Depression in the Triangle and Beyond by Alice Novinte

Many people experience seasonal affective disorder (also known as seasonal depression), which makes it hard for them to feel happy or like their normal selves during the winter months. Seasonal depression may lead people to lose interest in typical activities, isolate themselves from friends and family, and feel an overall lack of pleasure. As winter melts away, spring brings new opportunities for wellness through various outdoor activities. This blog post will share 5 ways to take advantage of the approaching warm weather to improve your mental health. 

For Triangle Residents: 

• Spend time at the park: Raleigh has an extensive park and greenway system. You can walk trails that span miles, or just enjoy a day hammocking at Dorothea Dix. Parks also have community centers where you can connect with others and find resources for recreational activities.
• Check out upcoming activities on Triangle on the Cheap: Triangle on the Cheap is a website that lists free or low-cost activities happening in the Triangle every weekend. You can find various events, from outdoor concerts to outdoor movie nights. One thing that many people cite as a barrier to enjoying the outdoors or engaging in new activities is cost. By using Triangle on the Cheap, you can get out of the house without experiencing financial stress. 

Across NC

• Take a day trip to the beach: North Carolina has a beautiful coast that is accessible for most residents. The beach may only be a 2-3 hour drive away, and taking a day trip can allow you easy access to the ocean without worrying about budgeting for accommodations. The beach can be a healing space for many people, as the vastness of the ocean and the sound of waves provide a relaxing and comforting environment. 
• Visit a river or lake: North Carolina has various rivers and lakes that are free or have low-cost entry. Jordan Lake, Eno River, and Salem Lake are just a few examples. If the beach is too far of a drive, lakes, and rivers can be a great option to experience the healing properties of water. 
• Attend an outdoor festival: NC has many festivals, including Artsplosure, Art in the Park, and Out! Raleigh Pride, The Dogwood Festival, Shakori Hills, and many others! Many of these festivals are free or affordable and boast a host of activities, including music, dance, and food trucks. 

Engaging in these outdoor activities can help you recharge and heal from seasonal depression. Try picking one thing to do each weekend to help ease yourself back into engaging in activities that you may have lost interest in during winter. Building outdoor activities into your schedule rather than viewing them as an afterthought can help improve your mental health. Winter may have drained your energy, but spring and summer can help you feel rejuvenated enough to prepare for the next winter. 

Did you know?

According to a research summary from the U.S. Department of Agriculture: 

• People who live near parks and green spaces have less mental distress, are more physically active, and have longer life spans.
• Exposure to nature may decrease death from chronic disease.
• Positive health effects are enhanced when green space includes water.