Trees change color, temperature decreases and the days get shorter: autumn. To be honest, I am not a big fan of this time of the year. All those colors are beautiful but I don’t like the rain and the cold! Many people experience autumn blues and find the prospect of half a year of bad weather difficult to cope with. They experience lower energy levels and feel less happy.

Some people have to cope with serious depressive complaints in autumn and winter: a seasonal depression. It’s a serious problem since every year there is autumn. The good news is that there is certainly something to do about it! Here are four tips:

Move, preferably outside

Although you might prefer to chill on the couch under a blanket, it is really more helpful to get outside and exercise regularly. There is less daylight during the winter and autumn, however, daylight will be good for you especially during this period. Your body produces endorphins while exercising, which makes you feel better immediately. So run, cycle or walk a few times a week and do it outside! The best time to get outside is in the morning. At this time of the day there is relatively more blue light, which inhibits the production of melatonin. This will make you feel less tired and drowsy during the day.

2. Eat healthy

In the summer(vacation) you might have let yourself go lose on barbecues, wine and pizza. Now it is the time to start eating healthy again. By eating healthy you will feel better, you will be less prone to cold and experience higher energy levels. Avoid eating foods high in sugar and carbohydrates, eat enough fruits and vegetables and take multivitamin supplements.

3. Get some rest!

Autumn is also a perfect time to get some rest! Plan time to relax and make sure to get enough sleep. Go offline and read a book by the fireplace, you don’t need to be  ‘on’ all the time. Be nice to yourself. This ensures a mental balance, reduces stress and will spice up your energy levels.

4. Seek for help

Do you suffer from a recurring depression every year as soon as it gets darker and the first leaves fall from the trees? Then you might benefit from professional help. You can think of light therapy, running therapy or maybe you would like to talk to a psychologist. There are plenty of possibilities that might make you feel better.

What do you do prevent the autumn or winter blues?