How to Mentally Prepare for Winter

How do you mentally prepare for winter? Where I live, it can almost seem as though we do not have a fall before winter hits. Sure, there might be a few weeks when the weather cools down and the leaves change color. But the temperature might freeze too fast for your mind and body to react properly. Here are some ways to mentally prepare for winter before it starts.

Prepare for Winter with These Tips

Take Advantage of an Indian Summer

Most years, we have what is called an Indian summer. The National Weather Service describes this as “a period of abnormally warm weather followed by the killing freeze of autumn.”¹ If you hate the freezing cold, it could be a relief to know that it might warm up briefly.

Remember an Indian Summer Will End

Although an Indian summer can be really nice, it can be just as dreadful when freezing cold weather abruptly starts. Something that can make this sudden change easier is to take measures before it starts. Some of these measures include the following:

• Put away most of your summer clothes.
• Buy and wear warmer clothes that you actually like.
• Make a list of things that have helped you survive the weather change in past years. Some examples might include hot chocolate or tea, vitamin D supplements, warm blankets, light therapy, or Netflix.
• Check the Weather Channel once or twice per week.
• Enjoy time outside when the weather is tolerable.
• Talk to loved ones or a doctor if the change in weather negatively affects your mood and ability to function.

Avoid These Things If You Struggle with Depression

Having major depressive disorder (MDD) can be hard enough. The cold weather and shorter days only make it worse. Thankfully, avoiding some things can improve depression. Some of these things include the following:

• Avoid spending too much time in freezing cold weather.
• Avoid oversleeping.
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol.
• Avoid eating too much sugar.

Some of the aforementioned lists of things to do and avoid might seem obvious or easier said than done. But they are not always things we think about when we prepare for winter weather.

To learn more about my insights on how to mentally prepare for the winter, watch my video below.

Source

1. National Weather Service, “What Is ‘Indian Summer’?” National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Accessed October 12, 2019.