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Khush Amaria , PhD , CPsych | Vice-President , Clinical Services – Mental Health , HumanaCare

What does it mean to “ feel the blues ”? And is it more common in the fall and winter months ?

The blues are a mild and temporary form of a mood problem , more often experienced in the cooler months ( for northern climates ). It is often associated with feelings of sadness , low energy , and lack of motivation . While similar to depression , the blues are often a result of changes in the environment and biological factors . Specifically , the reduction in sunlight exposure , changes to our internal circadian clocks , variations in sleep patterns , and adjustments to our usual levels of physical activity can all negatively impact our mood , energy levels , and general motivation .

It ’ s not all doom and gloom , though . Understanding why we may be susceptible to the blues helps us to build a response plan . This can include trying to maximize natural light exposure , or finding other ways to “ let the light in .” It ’ s important to continue to stay physically active , as exercise is known to boost mood and increase energy levels . Finally , trying to keep to a regular sleep schedule , despite the temptation to sleep longer , can also help keep the blues at bay .

For some individuals , the blues need to be taken more seriously . Major depressive disorder , often referred to as clinical depression , involves changes in mood and sleep , but also includes other serious symptoms that can emerge in any season . Symptoms of depression include loss of interest in usually pleasurable activities , feeling down or sad more days than not , sleeping too little or too much , tiredness and lack of energy , changes in appetite , agitation , restlessness , difficulty concentrating , feeling worthless or guilty for no reason , and in extreme cases , thoughts of death or suicide . Not all of these symptoms need to be present to be diagnosed with depression . Rather , the presence of such challenges and difficulties in daily activities , such as work or social functioning , may suggest the need for other supports such as medications or psychotherapy .

Fortunately , access to help for depression is improving every day . Family physicians or nurse practitioners are available for medication consults . Psychotherapy can include self-guided approaches that are fully delivered via the internet to cognitive behavioural therapy delivered in a traditional faceto-face manner or in virtual , phone , or group settings . The value of connecting to others and speaking up about what you are experiencing within your support system can also go a long way , not only to improve symptoms of depression , but to stave off the blues this fall and winter season .

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