Counselling in Abbotsford for mental health improvement is essential for individuals residing in the lower mainland. Abbotsford is a growing city, offering many resources for helping people struggling with depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and other mental health challenges that may arise during the winter months. Counselling for mental health is essential to overcoming negative mood changes associated with seasonal changes, especially as winter approaches. Abbotsford may be best described as a city with a country feel, as it has the Sumas Prairies, many farms, and acres of fresh produce and farm animals. As winter approaches Abbotsford, the landscape transforms into a stunning winter display of majestic mountains with newly snowtopped peaks and deep-coloured evergreen trees that provide a splash of colour, contrasting with the grey sky. In winter, Abbotsford residents may experience a change in their mood since the sun is not shining as often as it once did in the spring, summer, and fall months, leading to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and low levels of vitamin D, which directly affect mood and mental health. The winter season brings unique challenges for individuals of all ages. Children, youth, teenagers, and students may face a difficult transition to a new school, move up to a higher grade, and face academic pressure and responsibility to excel in their courses and classes. Adults may also be experiencing life stressors such as work-related stress, financial struggles, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and other mental health struggles. Abbotsford may also see an increase in rain and precipitation along with shorter days and longer nights, all influencing mood and mental health. With a lack of sunshine and vitamin D and changes in barometric atmospheric pressures, depression and anxiety can be at an all-time high (Mizoguchi et al., 2011). During this time, it is crucial to be mindful of ways to improve our mental health and find things that promote our emotional and psychological well-being. Receiving counselling in Abbotsford for mental health is crucial and can be a proactive way to reduce symptoms associated with seasonal affective disorder and navigate life stress that pops up around the winter season.
Staying Active in Abbotsford For Mental Health Improvement
Developing a routine that allows consistent and regular physical activity is one of the most effective tools for improving and maintaining our biological, psychological, and social well-being. Studies outline the benefits of being active during the winter months, showing an improvement in overall mood including, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety due to an increased release of neurotransmitters, such as endorphins, dopamine, and acetylcholine. Through exercising and staying active individuals may see a reduction in their stress hormones, such as cortisol, an increase in their self-esteem and confidence and increased mental resiliency due to the development of a stronger mindset. Joining local exercise classes in Abbotsford may help individuals connect with others with similar goals, allowing for increased motivation, better social connections and relationships, and reducing self-isolating behaviours. Exercising also promotes mindfulness, improving focus and reflection on current tasks and past experiences, shaping our worldview, and self-concept, and bringing a sense of peace to ourselves. Another way to incorporate physical activity, during the winter months, is to engage in outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating, allowing individuals to look forward to unique and exciting activities typically done during winter and cold seasons. These winter activities help individuals stay active and provide an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of winter and make the most of the season. Another benefit to maintaining physical activity during the colder months is its effect on sleep quality, improving sleep patterns and overall sleep quality, which is crucial for our mental health. Combining physical exercise with counselling for your mental health may increase your mental and psychological resilience, allowing you to overcome seasonal challenges.
Staying Connected For Your Mental Health
During the wintertime, it’s essential to maintain a connection to family, friends, and a counsellor for our overall psychological health, creating a support system, increasing social connection, and reducing isolation and withdrawal. Another benefit to staying connected with family, friends, and a counsellor is that they each provide a different and unique perspective and view, allowing us to draw from these perspectives to better ourselves. Winter typically brings colder and shorter days, impacting our mental health and potentially acting as a trigger to facilitate feelings of isolation and loneliness, making it very important for us to be mindful of keeping in touch with supportive individuals who can help us through difficult days. Research shows that connecting with supportive individuals such as family, friends, and a counsellor during winter can significantly improve our mental health and prevent the onset of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). By maintaining regular contact with family and friends, we can create a support system that helps us navigate through the challenges of the winter season. Whether it’s through phone calls, video chats, or in-person visits when possible, staying connected provides a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of loneliness. Sharing experiences and emotions with loved ones can also provide comfort and reassurance in the winter. In addition to the emotional benefits, staying connected with others encourages us to engage in more activities and social interactions, which are important for maintaining a positive mindset. Whether attending social gatherings, participating in group activities, or simply going for a walk with a friend, these interactions can boost our overall mood and sense of well-being.
Counselling in Abbotsford for Mental Health and Support
It is important to have a support system with family and friends, however, it is also beneficial to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a registered clinical counsellor (RCC), especially during seasonal changes. Clinical counsellors have the knowledge and expertise to assist individuals during challenging times. They provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to express their thoughts and feelings and offer valuable tools and techniques to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, counsellors can help identify and address any underlying issues contributing to mental health struggles. Seeking support from a registered clinical counsellor can help individuals better understand their emotions and develop personalized strategies to improve their mental health. This proactive approach can lead to a more positive and fulfilling experience during the winter months, ultimately promoting long-term mental health.
References
Martino, J., Pegg, J., Frates, E. P. (2015). The connection prescription: Using the power of social interactions and the deep desire for connectedness to empower health and wellness. PMC 11(6), 466-475. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6125010/
Mizoguchi, H., Fukaya, K., More, R., Utah, M., Funakubo, M., & Sato, J. (2011). Lowering barometric pressure aggravates depression-like behavior in rats. Behavioural Brain Research 218(1), 190-193. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbr.2010.11.057
