Beating the Winter Blues

WINTER NOT-SO WONDERLAND

As winter sweeps through our land, turning everything crystal white; it is noticeably quieter as people hibernate, glad to hunker down for the night. The fresh air stings our cheeks with a frosty scent, while darkness creeps in around late afternoon and seems to stretch on forever as we await the first signs of spring. During this season, the months have the illusion of being longer than usual, and there is nothing to punctuate the days as they turn into weeks. The landscape looks dead and colourless; the autumnal shades a distant memory. So, what is there to do to keep us buoyant through the winter?

In a worrying new report from Age UK, more people over the age of 60 are suffering from depression and anxiety than ever before. Although it is a perennial problem, it’s magnified by the winter months, and Seasonal Affective Disorder is very real as it is easier to feel isolated during sunless days and long nights. While depression and anxiety have to be treated by a medical professional, there is help and advice if you are feeling hopelessness and despair, or you might know someone who is; it’s always a good idea to check in on friends, neighbours and family members. There is now a larger ageing population, which will only increase, and it is estimated that 25% of seniors are living with mental health issues which are severe enough to require intervention. The pandemic has exacerbated the emotional state of the elderly, turning it into a hidden epidemic because stress-related illnesses are usually associated with the younger generation. Talking about emotions doesn’t often happen freely, and it hasn’t been normalised in the over-60 demographic yet, as they are generally considered more stoic.

Loneliness feels worse in the winter, and with recent lockdowns heightening the issue, it is easy to get stuck in a rut and shut down. Feeling marginalised by technology is a common problem, but it expands our world if we embrace it as we all crave human connection and companionship, texting and video calling are at our fingertips, so we can all stay in touch. Owning a device allows us to indulge in silly videos on social media, listen to music and podcasts, and download digital jigsaws, puzzles or colouring apps. Wrapping up and going for a walk is exhilarating in the cold months; it blows the cobwebs away, and it is interesting to see the changes to the natural landscape, too. It is also a way to talk to and connect with people; just a simple ‘hello’ can lift our mood. Looking after our physical self will improve our mental well-being, and a healthy diet will work wonders. Superfood smoothies are a tasty treat to enjoy between meals, and they will boost the immune system with all their antioxidants. Hygge is the Danish way of life, creating a cosy environment with candles, natural elements such as plants, textured layering of clothes and bed linen will make the home a comforting and happy place.

Creating and sticking to a routine is another way to combat boredom. Incorporating a new hobby or interest into that routine is guaranteed to activate the brain juices, stimulating positive, feel-good hormones, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Arts and Handicrafts - They can be in any form. Drawing, painting, knitting, cross stitching, or macramé; try them all!

Writing - It’s good exercise for the mind and can order your thoughts. You don’t have to share your work with anyone, it can just be for you.

Genealogy - Here is where you could go down a metaphorical rabbit hole and lose a few hours. Who doesn’t want to find out if they are related to royalty?

Bird Watching - It is relaxing observing our feathered friends. It is also interesting to learn about the different species and their habits.

Adult Learning - A hobby to get your teeth into, and there are plenty of subjects to choose from, plus it is good to meet people with the same interests. A report in The Guardian shows that learning delays the onset of Alzheimer’s, while a social network and leisure pursuits help seniors with longevity.

A loss of pleasure in activities, a persistent low mood, tearfulness and irritability could all be signs of a mental health issue, so it’s prudent to talk to a G.P if you are experiencing this.

Seasonal Affective Disorder is very real as it is easier to feel isolated during sunless days and long nights.

The Silver Line Helpline: call free on 0800 470 8090. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Age UK Advice Line: 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., 365 days a year.