Activity Guides

Winter blues and seasonal depression

This session supports participants to understand how seasonal changes can affect mood, energy, and overall mental well-being during the winter months. Participants will explore the experience commonly referred to as the “winter blues” and learn about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), including its signs, symptoms, and impact on daily life. Activities will also engage in learning more about self-care during the winter season.

Terminology: Winter blues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), mental well-being, self-care, resilience, emotional wellness

Audience

Age: All ages

Community Needs: Learning more about winter blues and seasonal depression

Group Size: 5-20 people

Language Level: Low Intermediate (Level 2–3) English proficiency

Participant Benefits

Understand the difference between winter blues and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Explore how seasonal changes can impact mood, energy, and daily functioning, and learn to recognize the differences between temporary winter-related mood changes and SAD.
Recognize causes and contributing factors of SAD and winter blues: Build awareness of the environmental, emotional, and lifestyle factors that may influence mental well-being during the winter season.
Develop healthy coping strategies for the winter months: Learn practical approaches to support emotional wellness, manage seasonal stress, and maintain balance during colder and darker months.
Encourage self-reflection and appreciation of the winter season: Reflect on personal experiences with winter and explore ways to foster mindfulness, gratitude, and positive seasonal routines.
Use creativity and crafts as tools for wellness and connection: Engage in creative activities that promote self-expression, relaxation, and a greater sense of enjoyment and connection during the winter season.

Recommended Art Materials

Small paper white or colourful for snowflake making
Scissors and recycling bin for scraps of paper
String and paper clips to secure and display snowflakes.
Writing Utensils including large markers, pencil crayons, oil pastels, pencil crayons etc.