Responding to terror against our immigrant communities, ableist attacks against disabled federal employees, the dismantling of DEI, and the wholesale onslaught against our trans siblings’ safety and existence brings any kind of ‘winter blues’ we might be feeling to a whole other level.
Prioritizing rest, recovery, and even joy in times like these makes sure that we have enough energy to keep fighting.
Symptoms of seasonal depression can include (not limited to) feeling sad or hopeless, lacking energy or feeling fatigued or lethargic, loss of interest in things you usually enjoy, having trouble focusing or making decisions, feeling unusually irritable or anxious, and more.
If you are experiencing symptoms of seasonal depression, consider some of the following suggestions:
– Get as much natural sunlight as possible, especially in the morning. Consider opening blinds, or sitting near a window.
– Consider adding vitamin D into your diet, whether through foods high in vitamin D, or supplements. (Some foods high in Vitamin D include egg yolks, fatty fish, red meat, milk, figs, mushrooms)
– Movement and exercise (within your abilities) can improve your mood, relieve anxiety, and stress.
– Reach out to, and spend time with friends and community. Nothing can replace the power that community support can have on our mental health.
– Be patient with, and kind to yourself. Healing takes time and patience. Expect things to move slowly, and be gentle with yourself along the way.
– Seek help. If you are experiencing consistent symptoms of depression, consider reaching out to a health provider or a crisis line. Know that you are not alone and help is available.
Crisis Support Services of Alameda County
1-800-273-8255
Mental Health 1st
MH First Oakland: 510-999-MH19, Fridays and Saturdays 2:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
MH First Sacramento: (916) 670-4062, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 7:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m.
Alameda Family Services
510-337-8340, offering the Alameda CARE Team as a mental health crisis response alternative to police
Pacific Center For Human Growth
Mental Health support for individuals in the LGBTQIA community
Open Monday – Friday 10-7
National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI)
Call (800) 950-6264, text “helpline” to 62640, or chat online
