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Beat the Winter Blues

Beat the Winter Blues

18 Out of 100 People

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders such as PTSD, panic attacks, phobias, and general anxiety disorder affect 18% of people in the U.S. each year, making them the most common mental health problems.

Anxiety becomes an anxiety disorder when overwhelming fear and worry prevent you from being able to live a normal life. Anxiety disorders can affect anyone and may begin at any age.

People with anxiety disorders are unable to control their own disturbing thoughts. They may start to avoid everyday situations that they fear will trigger more stress.

Anyone in Ventura County who has a question about mental health should seek help immediately, the same way you would ask for help when we have any other health question. If ignored and untreated, extreme anxiety can prevent you from being able to participate in daily life.

Worrying, Anxiety and When It’s Too Much

Everyone experiences worry in some way during daily life. You may feel understandably anxious as a reaction to ordinary urgent situations, for example, if you are running late for work. However, you may also feel anxious when you are worrying about something that may or may not happen, a threat that only exists in your imagination.

Winter blues? You’re not alone – and brighter days are ahead! Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression common during short days with less sunlight, and there are ways to feel better.

Sunlight Snacks

Just a few minutes outside every day – especially near sunrise or sunset – can fuel your mood and keep your body’s clock on track. Morning sunlight especially can help you feel happier and sleep better. Here's how long to spend outside:

  • ‍Clear day: 5 minutes
  • ‍Cloudy day: 10 minutes
  • ‍Overcast day: 20 minutes

Try it without sunglasses as the angle of light reaching your eyes is what tells your brain it's time to reset. For safety, don't look directly at the sun.

‍Other tips:

  • If you can't get outside, try a light therapy box to mimic natural sunlight indoors.
  • Stay active – exercise is great for both your body and mind! A walk can combine movement and sunlight.
  • Connect with loved ones – sharing makes a difference.
  • Reach out for support – talk with your health provider about how you're feeling and whether or not it may be seasonal affective disorder.

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For a crisis, call 911 or the VCBH Crisis Team at (866) 998-2243. Please note that information on WellnessEveryday.org should not be used as a substitute for professional healthcare. Always consult a
healthcare professional before acting on any information found on WellnessEveryday.org.

Ventura County Behavioral Health treatment clinics and programs are licensed by the State Department of Health Care Services. Learn more at www.VCBH.org.
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