Exciting News from TaraVista! We’re welcoming new grad RNs and LPNs to join our growing team. Discover why there’s more at Tara. 🩵 Visit our Careers Page  for more details as well as other opportunities!

Winter Check-in

Coping with Winter Stress, Seasonal Slumps, and Mental Health in the Colder Months

Late Winter, Lighter Days

Coping with Winter Stress, Seasonal Slumps, and Mental Health in the Colder Months

This weekend brings another big winter storm — and with it, for many, it’s more than the snow that feels heavy.

This year’s winter has been colder and snowier than recent years. And with it come the small hassles: fewer parking spaces because of snowbanks, bundling up pets for walks, refilling windshield fluid, pulling on boots, gloves, and hats before you even step outside.

Then there are the bigger challenges.
Childcare disruptions from school and daycare closures.
Events you were looking forward to cancelled.
Work schedules thrown off balance.

And if you’re an essential worker — like many of our TaraVista team members — remote work isn’t an option. You’re commuting in tough conditions, showing up no matter the forecast.

Winter weather doesn’t just affect roads. It can impact mental health, mood, productivity, and overall well-being.

So let’s pause.

How are you doing?

Signs You May Be Experiencing Winter Stress or Seasonal Fatigue

Winter fatigue, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and increased stress often show up subtly:

  • Irritability or mood changes

  • Low energy or trouble sleeping

  • Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

  • Tardiness at work

  • Increased mistakes or missed deadlines

  • Social withdrawal

  • Headaches, muscle tension, or feeling run down

It may not be a mental health crisis — it may be cumulative winter stress. But noticing the signs early matters.

Coping Strategies for Late-Winter Slumps

We all know these strategies — but they’re worth revisiting.
You may already be doing some. If one isn’t helping, try another.

Increase Your Light Exposure

Light plays a powerful role in mood regulation.

  • Consider adding light therapy to your morning routine.

  • Open your shades first thing.

  • Take a short outdoor walk, even 10 minutes.

Stay Social and Connected

Social support is one of the strongest protective factors for mental health.

  • Text or call a friend.

  • Schedule coffee.

  • Check in on someone you care about.  Helping others boosts your own well-being.

Reduce Overload

  • Limit screen time, especially news and scrolling before bed.

  • Choose intentional downtime instead — watch the Olympics, go to a movie, visit a museum, bake cookies, or cook a favorite meal.

Refresh Your Environment

  • Add a plant or fresh flowers to brighten your space.

  • Rearrange or refresh a small area of your home.

Small, manageable shifts can improve mood, focus, and resilience.

Winter Is Temporary — and Support Is Available

Late February can feel endless. But the light is already changing.

The days are getting longer. In March, we turn the clocks ahead. Evening light will stretch further each week.

If your mood feels persistently low, anxiety is increasing, or daily responsibilities are becoming harder to manage, professional mental health support can make a difference.

You don’t have to navigate winter stress, seasonal depression, or emotional burnout alone.

👉 Visit our Resource Page to learn more about mental health services, treatment options, and support resources available for individuals and families.

Lighter days are ahead — and small steps now can help you get there.