Sacramento County, CA

12/17/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/17/2024 14:19

Stop Stigma Sacramento: Overcoming Seasonal Slumps

​The winter season gives us the many joys of the holidays - family gatherings, festive celebrations and cozy nights by the fire. It's important to recognize that colder months also bring challenges. Shorter days, darker skies and gloomy weather often make people feel "off" or down. Add the stress of holiday pressures to the mix and a seasonal slump start may start to present itself.

Stop Stigma Sacramento, an initiative funded by Sacramento County Behavioral Health Services, is stepping in to share some uplifting strategies to feel your best this winter, both mentally and physically.

The technical medical condition for winter slump is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and the first thing we want you to know is that it's temporary and beatable with the right resources and tools. Feeling tired more than usual, oversleeping and overeating, experiencing a dip in mood during the colder months and a lack of energy or motivation for day-to-day activities? You may be experiencing SAD.

A few mindful changes can start to lift your mood and energy:

  • Soak up the sunshine: Try to get outside for a bit of fresh air each day, especially when the sun peeks through. Natural light can help regulate your mood and keep your energy up.
  • Stay active: Regular physical activity helps boost endorphins and can keep your energy levels high. It doesn't have to be a major workout - simple stretches, a walk or dancing to your favorite music will help.
  • Meditate or practice mindfulness: Daily meditation can help you stay grounded and reduce stress during the busy holiday season.
  • Stay connected: Spend time with friends and family, even if it's virtual. Social connections can help lift your spirits and remind you that you're not alone.
  • Maintain a regular sleep routine: Sleep is crucial for mental and physical health. Try to keep a consistent schedule, even during the holidays, to ensure you're well-rested.
  • Nourish your body: A balanced diet, along with staying hydrated, can help keep your energy steady. It's also a good time to reduce alcohol or caffeine, which can disrupt your mood or sleep.

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SAD is a real condition and is often pawned off as "just a phase" or misunderstood by others who think "you should just be stronger." In actuality, it deserves the same care as any other health condition. The days of stigmatizing seasonal slumps are over.


There are resources available to help those struggling with the effects of seasonal depression, so don't hesitate to seek support. You can visit the Stop Stigma Sacramento services page for local mental health resources or reach out to a trusted professional. For immediate support, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available for anyone in a mental health crisis. It's free, confidential and available 24/7. Help is just a call away.

Winter can bring its challenges but with the right tools and support, we can navigate it in a way that promotes a healthy and happy community.

Stop Stigma Sacramento is funded by the Division of Behavioral Health Services through the voter approved Proposition 63, Mental Health Services Act (MHSA).