Seasonal affective disorder affects many of us.
However, the fact that writers spend a lot of time indoors sitting down can make us more vulnerable.
Get Outside
The antidote to seasonal affective disorder is to get outside and walk as much as you can.
Even a ten-minute walk can make a difference to your mood.
The other bonus from walking is that you will also find that solutions to writing problems wing their way into the mind as well as new ideas.
I often get new ideas when out walking.
I love the fact these ideas arrive as though from nowhere without me having to focus or ‘think them up.’
According to Mind, an organisation that supports those of us with mental problems, seasonal affective disorder is a recognized mental health disorder which some people experience at particular times of the year.
Many of us are affected by the seasons without having this disorder.
It’s entirely normal to feel happier and enjoy more energy when the sun is out, and the skies are blue.
THE BLACK CLOUD
However, for those who have this disorder, the impact on everyday life is far greater and can lead to depression.
Mind describes it as ‘like having your own portable black cloud. Since I’ve had my own problems with depression, I can safely say this is a very accurate description.
We can’t all escape to the south of France, although I’m sure we’d feel a lot better under a warm blue sky. So what can we do?
Well, I’m no doctor, so if you are feeling depressed, my best advice is to consult one.
Don’t wait until your grey thoughts get completely dark.
Don’t forget that depression is an illness which can be fatal.
As I mentioned above, I have endured recurring bouts of depression throughout my life, but with the help of my G.P., regular walks, yoga and meditation, I am mostly managing it quite well.
SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER & DEPRESSION
Depression is a different beast than SAD.
If you are not feeling depressed but just feel a little under the weather, then you could try making sure that the minute the sun shines, you are out there grabbing your few rays.
Taking a break improves your productivity, so don’t be afraid of leaving your desk. It will still be there when you get back, but you will feel better able to tackle your work.
WRITER’S HIGH
You can try increasing your walking speed to help release endorphins which can elevate your mood.
Runners experience this as ‘runners high.’ We could call it ‘writers high.’
Another thing you can try is the pomorodo technique. I have found this very effective at decreasing the amount of time I spend sitting. I use the pomorodo five-minute breaks to do a quick burst of movement.
My little breaks usually concern a bit of housework or some quick food preparation. If you don’t know what I am talking about, you can learn more about the pomorodo technique here.
Best of luck with your writing.
Grace
P.S. All the information, exercises and tips on this site are free to you – liking, sharing or commenting help to support this site.
I love helping writers, but I do have to pay for the running of this site.
So if you found this helpful – please use the donate button below.
You can make any donation – large or small to help keep this site going.
Another great way to show your support for the site is to buy and review my book. You won’t be sorry because Practical Creative Writing Exercises is packed full of inspiring exercises to get your ideas flowing in minutes.
No comments yet.