Beating the Winter Blues: How to Cope with Seasonal Affective Disorder

by Myisha Jackson October 30, 2025

It’s almost that time of year when I start hearing, “I don’t know what’s wrong… I just don’t feel like myself.”

It’s the same conversation every fall.

The days get shorter, the sunlight fades faster, and people start to feel that quiet heaviness. They’re tired but can’t rest. Moody but can’t explain why.

If that sounds familiar, then it might be more than just a rough week or it could be what we call the “winter blues,” or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that appears in the fall and winter months and usually improves when spring and sunlight return.

There isn’t one clear cause, but research shows that less sunlight can disrupt your body’s natural clock, lower serotonin (the feel-good chemical), and decrease Vitamin D which is all of which affect mood and energy.

It’s also more common in women and children, especially those who thrive in natural light and outdoor spaces.

Common Signs You Might Be Experiencing SAD

Low energy or feeling sluggish
Sleeping more but still feeling tired
Loss of interest in things you normally enjoy
Feeling sad, hopeless, or easily irritated
Wanting to withdraw or isolate

These symptoms are similar to depression, but with SAD, they tend to show up seasonally and fade as the days get longer.

What I Recommend as a Mom, Therapist, and Entrepreneur

When that “off” feeling starts to creep in, I like to take a full mind-body approach because mental health isn’t just about your thoughts, it’s also about what’s happening inside your body.

Start with your doctor.
Before assuming it’s just the season, check in with your primary care provider (PCP).
Sometimes what looks like SAD is actually low Vitamin D, thyroid imbalance, iron deficiency, or even hormonal changes.
A quick lab check can tell you exactly what’s going on so you’re not guessing.
Therapy helps more than you think.
Talking to a therapist gives you space to unpack emotions, build structure, and learn coping skills that carry you through darker months.
(If you’re in Louisiana or Texas, my practice, Healing Journey Counseling Center, has therapists ready to help.)
Light + movement = mood boost.
Get as much natural light as possible, open blinds, or invest in a light therapy lamp.
And move your body even gentle stretching or a short walk can make a difference.
I remind my clients (and myself) often: movement is medicine.
Feed your mind by nourishing your body.
Nutrition plays a huge role in how we feel.
As daylight decreases, our bodies need more support and that’s where quality supplements can help.

My Farmasi Nutriplus Favorites for Beating the Winter Blues 🌿

These are my personal go-tos for maintaining energy, focus, and mood when sunlight is limited:

Vitamin D3 Spray – Helps replenish Vitamin D when sunlight is scarce.
Omega 3 Fish Oil – Supports brain health, focus, and emotional balance.
Green and berry Gummies – A quick, tasty way to boost your vitamins, greens, immunity, and natural energy support.
Chicory Coffee – A warm, gut-friendly coffee alternative that’s gentle on your system.
Mushroom Coffee – My favorite morning pick-me-up packed with adaptogens that help with focus, mood, and stress.

These small daily habits make a big difference in how you feel mentally and physically through the colder months. Shop my favorite wellness products HERE.

Small Shifts That Help

Switch to warmer light bulbs, open your curtains as soon as you wake up, and create cozy corners filled with soft light, plants, or candles.
Find joy in smaller routines such as your morning coffee, an evening stretch, or journaling before bed.

This time of year doesn’t have to be something you “get through.” You can learn to move through it with grace, awareness, and intentional care.

A Final Note from Me 💛

Before diagnosing yourself, always talk to your PCP or a licensed therapist.
Sometimes the “winter blues” are really your body and mind asking for more light in every sense of the word.

I’ll be sharing more mental health and wellness tips throughout the fall and winter months on my Instagram.

Follow along for ways to care for yourself and your nervous system during this season.

You deserve to feel balanced, grounded, and well in every role you carry.