How to Support Your Friends Through Seasonal Depression

For many people the holiday season is not a time of joy and jubilation. It’s actually the opposite. Sometimes the wintery months coupled with holidays brings on seasonal depression which can have a profound impact on our well being.  3 - 5% of people experience seasonal depression every year. With 2020 being a year of immense uncertainty and isolation these numbers will more than likely increase. Make a point to reach out to those close to you to see how they are doing. Don’t be afraid to lean in a little more than usual as most people don’t open up immediately. Remember, all of us just want to be heard, understood, and loved and when things get tough we need to know there are people who have our backs. 

Here are 5 things you can do for your friends to help them combat seasonal depression. 

Don’t Judge
Create a safe place for your friend to open up and talk about their experience. One way you can do this is by simply listening to them and refraining from offering advice. It’s also important not to come off as judgmental in your tone or expressions.

Offer to Make Dinner
Invite your friend over for a scrumptious Vitamin D rich meal. Although the jury is still out on Vitamin D, some studies have shown Vitamin D and light therapy being effective in treating depressive symptoms. Feel free to make these wonderful tips part of your dinner experience as well.

Give Them Time and Space
If your friend has children, offer to watch their kids for a couple hours. Trust me I’m a parent and you have no idea how helpful this actually is. Parents are constantly seeking peace of mind and if either one of them is experiencing seasonal depression giving them a break will go a long way. 

Help Them Find Support
There’s a good chance your friend may not be aware they are dealing with seasonal depression. And if they are they may be reluctant to find a therapist as it can be a daunting process. If they are interested, offer to help them find 3 therapists as well as writing down what they’d like to get out of a session.

Do the Draw & Sip Woo
Creating a fun night for your friend will give them a hit of dopamine thus helping them release stress. This Woo's difficulty level is for beginners and can be done virtually. 

Items Needed
Color Pencils
Your Favorite Wine
Paper

Step 1
Grab a glass of wine or cocktail with your friend.

Step 2
Go to Art for Kids Hub and find a character you'd both like to draw. Make sure it’s the same character.

Step 3
Sip. Draw. Have fun! 

I did this Woo with a good friend and we had a blast. The drawings are so easy and fun that you my decide to do this Woo with a group of friends as well.  

However you decide to support your friend make sure it’s healthy for both you and them. For more Woo Ideas checkout out our blog and follow us @wooeternal. You’ll be glad you did.