Winter blues or depression?

Although the terms “winter blues” and “winter depression” are often used synonymously, they refer to two different conditions. Most people experience feelings of sadness or tiredness when the golden autumn gives way to the gloomy season with few hours of sunshine. A slightly melancholic mood at the end of what may have been an eventful summer is not unusual. Lack of light, Christmas stress and wet weather also play their part. However, these widespread feelings triggered by the change of season are by no means the same as depression.

The two main differences between the winter blues and winter depression are the duration of the condition and the intensity of the symptoms. With the winter blues or a seasonal low mood, negative feelings come and go and are not present all day or for several days at a time. Winter depression, on the other hand, comes with symptoms that last for at least 14 days and can severely impair everyday life. In addition, the symptoms of winter depression are much more pronounced than the feelings that can occur with the winter blues.

The most common symptoms of winter depression include:

• Hopelessness
• Sleep disturbances and lack of energy
• Cravings for carbohydrates and subsequent weight gain
• Irritability or restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating

Help and self-help

Although they are very different, the same applies to both the winter blues and winter depression: you don’t have to let them control your life just because it’s cold and dark outside! There are many ways to counteract negative emotions and lack of energy. Measures such as the following can help combat the winter blues:

• Spend as much time as possible in daylight/nature (even if it is cold and cloudy)
• If necessary, use artificial daylight, e.g. daylight lamps
• Exercise and relaxation techniques
• Pursue enjoyable hobbies and meet friends or family

Overcoming depression is much more difficult – in most cases, professional support is required. If you are interested in this topic, please read our article on winter depression.