Support is available at Emotions Anonymous for those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder. (Facebook/Melfort Emotions Anonymous Group)

By Rachel May

Winter Mental Health

What is seasonal affective disorder and how to combat it

Oct 21, 2021 | 5:00 PM

With cold weather just around the corner, it’s normal to catch a case of the ‘winter blues,’ however, the following tips and tricks may help you get through this time of year.

Co-founder of Melfort Emotions Anonymous group Robert Steffan said there is more than one type of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

“There is a higher tendency for people to have worse mood symptoms in winter. It isn’t just winter; some people experience it in summer, too,” Steffan told northeastNOW.

SAD is a subtype of depression and can present itself in a variety of ways, but common symptoms include energy loss, changes in appetite, mood swings, and disinterest in activities.

Emotions Anonymous helps people through difficult times by providing support and suggestions for activities they can do at home to cope.

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

“It’s important to find something that helps us feel good about ourselves, whether that’s a hobby or volunteering. It’s always good to help our self-worth,” Steffan said.

Other suggestions for activities to help with SAD:

Eating properly
- When we eat poorly it tends to make us feel guilty which lowers our self-esteem.
Working out
- Keeping active during the winter with activities we look forward to.
Community
- Surround yourself with people you care about and increase your self-worth.

These methods may be helpful for some, but if you are struggling, you should reach out for help.

“If it is affecting our work or family life. It is important to reach out to professionals,” Steffan said.

Emotions Anonymous helps individuals recovery through emotional difficulties.

“There is someone there who will understand. Even if we think we are alone and no one has ever been through what we are going through,” Steffan said. “We have similar emotions, not the same situations but we are made of the same stuff.”

To find more mental health resources, you can visit the Melfort Emotions Anonymous group on Facebook.

—

Rachel.May@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RachelMayFM

by Rachel May

View Comments

What is seasonal affective disorder and how to combat it

What's Trending