Telegram - Serving Metropolitan Detroit Since 1944

Snow is falling, the nights are getting longer, and stores are playing holiday music; these are all signs that winter has begun. For many, the fresh snow, sweets, and holiday cheer can bring a lot of joy and happiness during this time, but for some, the winter season can cause their mood to drop. How could a specific season put someone in a poor mood? After many years of research, scientists have found that some people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). According to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER), this disorder is a type of depression that corresponds to the changes in the seasons. The MFMER also stated that symptoms of SAD for most people start in the Fall and continue throughout the winter months.

According to MFMER, one factor that causes people to have winter blues is a decrease in daylight hours which corresponds to a decrease in the amount of sunshine we are exposed to each day. The lack of time in the sunlight can disrupt the body's circadian rhythm (or internal clock) and cause many negative side effects. Symptoms of SAD can include feeling sluggish, decreased energy levels, having a hard time sleeping, and more.

There are many ways to alleviate some of the symptoms of SAD. According to Kaiser Permanente physician, Dr. Amado Daylo, one of those ways is increasing the amount of time you spend outside. Even though no one can control the change in seasons, it is possible to accept and adapt to the changes and spend as much time outside in the sunlight as possible. The first step of embracing the winter is knowing how to bundle up and stay safe in the cold. Next, you will need to find a fun place to go and plan some activities to do outside. Last, go out and put your plan into action! Some activities you can do during winter are going on winter hikes, walking your pet, going snowshoeing, having a bonfire, looking for wildlife, and so much more. At the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, we offer many family-friendly programs and activities to help people get outside. Or you can enjoy some self-guided fun like hiking on our trails (pets are allowed at the refuge while on a leash), observing wildlife, painting, picnicking, fishing, and photography.

We at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service know that mental health is important, and we encourage you to reach out to others and/or medical professionals if you are going through hard time