Managing Seasonal Depression

By: Nicole Chinery | December 2024

As black women, due external pressures to be many things at once- to be mothers, partners, daughters and friends, in conjunction with the pressures of societal expectations, we often assume the role of a superhuman. While this fuels many of us and allows us to excel in all capacities, it does not afford us grace, and more often than not, we forget to be kind to ourselves. 

So if you were in need of a gentle reminder to be kinder to yourself, here it is sis: 

Even though you rise to the task on every occasion in many ways, you are not immune to being sad and that’s okay because you’re still human. You are allowed to be sad, tired and burnt out. You are allowed to feel like you need to take a few days off to center your wellbeing. And you are most definitely allowed to practice self care in whatever way best suits you, it’s not being selfish, it’s productive.

However with winter fast approaching and seasonal depression slowly taking root, self care can be hard. In light of this, Elmi Counselling and Wellness Services has put together some tips for self care, to help you deal with seasonal depression and burn out. You can also check out our resource guides for more tips!

Tips for self care: 

• Incorporate Moments of Stillness: 

Take note of how many times you multitask a day. You’d marvel. They say women are great at multitasking and men, not so much but they don’t account for the fact that many of us multitask because we simply have too much to do as women, as mothers- that proverbial mental load. This is why taking a few moments in your day to just be still can be powerful for your mental health and overall wellbeing.

• Maintain a Routine : 

One way a routine will get you right is by grounding you. Having a routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability in these moments where your mood may not be as stable due to environmental factors. It anchors you and allows you to have some motion even on the days your motivation may be on the low. 

• Have fun: 

Sometimes sis, life doesn’t have to be that serious. This weekend, start a new show, facetime a friend, put on a face mask and chill. We recognise that self-care is personal so we encourage you to explore the full spectrum- play around with it. At the end of the day all that matters is you. 

Sometimes, it may help to speak to a professional who can not only empathize with you but also provide the personalised care you need. Book a consultation today!