Tis the season to be jolly!! That may be true, but for some, that is not necessarily the case. Seasonal depression is something many people struggle with. There are studies that show the change in season and less sunlight can trigger seasonal depression, especially around the holidays. Read more here about Seasonal Affective Disorder.
With any type of illness, it is important to know and understand the signs to fully be able to diagnose it. Read here to learn more about SAD symptoms. Along with knowing the symptoms, it helps to recognize when you or others are experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder and how to counteract it. Social Emotional Learning is all about taking the initiative to regain some control after all. Here are some actions that you can take to try to refocus your mind!
1. Refocus your mind with positive affirmations!
Positive affirmations are short, empowering statements that can shift your mindset and rewire negative thinking. Repeating affirmations daily helps build self-confidence, reduce stress, and promote mental clarity.
Examples of positive affirmations:
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“I am in control of my thoughts and emotions.”
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“I am calm, centered, and at peace.”
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“I attract positivity and abundance.”
💡 Tip: Say your affirmations aloud in front of a mirror or write them down in a journal to enhance their impact.
2. Surround yourself with positive energy!
Your environment influences your emotional and mental well-being. Surround yourself with people, sounds, colors, and objects that radiate positive energy.
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Play uplifting music
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Display inspiring quotes
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Keep your space clean and clutter-free
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Avoid toxic environments
✨ A peaceful environment promotes focus, productivity, and emotional balance.
3. Count all the things you have to be grateful for
Practicing gratitude helps refocus your mind on the positive aspects of your life. Studies show that gratitude increases happiness, lowers stress, and improves emotional health.
Gratitude practice ideas:
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Start a gratitude journal (write down 3 things daily)
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Verbally thank people in your life
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Reflect on small wins or simple pleasures
🧠 Reminder: Gratitude helps shift your focus from scarcity to abundance.
4. Meditate
Meditation is one of the most effective tools to quiet the mind and regain mental clarity. Even just 5–10 minutes of daily meditation can reduce anxiety, improve focus, and enhance self-awareness.
Simple steps to get started:
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Find a quiet, comfortable place
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Focus on your breath
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Let thoughts come and go without judgment
🎧 Try guided meditations using apps like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer.
5. Burn sage or some kind of incense that is relaxing for you.
Burning sage (smudging) or calming incense like lavender, sandalwood, or frankincense can help clear negative energy and promote a serene atmosphere. This ancient ritual is used in many cultures for spiritual cleansing and stress relief.
Benefits of burning sage or incense:
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Enhances concentration during meditation
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Clears stagnant energy in your space
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Promotes emotional balance
🔥 Always burn incense in a well-ventilated area and use a fire-safe holder.
As always, there is no right way or wrong way to go about handling seasonal depression, and it is understandable that while some tips may help, some may not be successful. The most important thing to remember is that you are never alone, visit crisis center to find out more details on how to be proactive against SAD.
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