The Winter Blues May Be a Myth!

Good news for those dreading the season of winter.  The concept of the "winter blues" or "seasonal affective disorder" may be a myth.  Scientists are busy re-examining this whole concept.  I have read of at least three studies that have looked at this topic from many different angles.  They have all concluded that there is no evidence that people are any more depressed in the cold weather than at any other time of the year.  In fact, one study coming out of the University of Liége, Belgium suggests that our brain may actually function better during the winter months.  "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." - Ecclesiastes 3:1.

The term, seasonal affective disorder or SAD, came into the lexicon in the 1980's.  It now appears that the original scientific investigation identifying this disorder, may have been skewed by choosing study participants who all complained of winter-related mood changes. This would introduce statistical bias into those earlier studies upon which our current facts are based.  This new found information left me quite disconcerted.  I should be happy but studying the latest findings challenges my whole winter mindset.  It most certainly will lead to confrontations with friends and family.  It has become customary in my circle of friends to complain about low-energy, depression and weight gain during the winter months.  The culprit? Why, seasonal affective disorder of course!  This news will even change my reading habits since magazines touting strategies for beating the "winter blues" always catch my eye.  "He hath made every thing beautiful in his time." -Ecclesiastes 3:11a.

To be sure, every season and weather condition presents its challenges.  The good news appears to be that maybe we can tone down the rhetoric and even find some reasons to enjoy the weather (and the added brain power).  Remain active in your life.  Skiing, ice skating and snow-shoeing present excellent opportunities to enjoy the sun for the limited time it is shining.  You will feel warm in no time.  If you miss jogging or walking in the evening, why not substitute a walk in your local mall or take an exercise class.  Start a new hobby (a new language perhaps) or recognize the added inside time as an opportunity to organize your closet or home office.  Make hot cocoa, or a pot of soup and invite over some company. Wear appropriate attire so that you are more comfortable when outdoors.  Cozy blankets and candles go a long way towards creating a happy and supportive environment for you during the winter months.  With some brainstorming you can make the adjustments that you need to enjoy the season.  "This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." - Psalm 118:24.