The Winter Blues Hit New York Hard: Here’s What You Can Do
The holiday season isn’t always jolly for everyone in New York. While twinkling lights and festive gatherings fill the city, for some, the colder months bring a unique set of challenges to mental well-being.
Experts at the National Alliance on Mental Illness New York City (NAMI NYC) report a 30% surge in helpline calls during winter compared to summer, reflecting the struggles many face during this time. "A lot of people are calling us who are feeling alone, depressed, isolated and without connection and are really looking for what they can do to feel better,” said Susan Batkin, NAMI NYC’s helpline director.
This uptick in calls often worsens after the holidays pass, leaving many grappling with loneliness, grief, or the pressure of familial obligations.
Experts suggest several contributing factors to these winter woes. Dr. Thea Gallagher, a clinical psychologist at NYU, explains that decreased daylight hours, the difficulty of socializing outdoors, and holiday-related stress can all play a part.
"The holidays can also be challenging for the fact that if you have family, you might have some fraught relationships," said Dr. Gallagher. "If you don’t have family, it might be kind of a lonely time. It can also be a difficult time if you’re going through a grief season doing a lot of firsts, maybe without someone in your life."
The good news is that there are strategies to cope and reclaim a sense of well-being during these darker months.
Dr. Gallagher encourages embracing the slower pace of winter. "I think there can be some perspective shift, too, to say like, ‘it’s a different time of year. And how do I kind of maybe slow down or pick up some things that I’ve wanted to do’ or again, maybe be intentional with this time that is a little bit more slowed down," she advises.
Simple acts like lighting candles, reading by the fire, or mindful moments during everyday tasks – brushing your teeth, for example – can provide a sense of warmth and grounding, according to Dr. Molly Sherb, a psychologist at the Mount Sinai health system.
Seeking Support When You Need It
If you or someone you know is struggling, know that help is available.
- Immediate Crisis Line: The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, reachable by dialing 988, provides 24/7 support and connects callers with trained counselors. As Glenn Liebman, CEO of the Mental Health Association in New York State, notes: "We don’t have enough people to serve people constantly. So that’s where 988 comes in. I can’t emphasize enough how significant a resource 988 can be for some people."
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Teen Support: Teens can access free therapy via phone, video, and text through "Teenspace," a partnership between the city and TalkSpace. Registering is simple, requiring only the teen’s address, birthday, and a parent’s consent.
- Affordable Options: New Yorkers have access to affordable mental health care through NYC Health + Hospitals, regardless of their ability to pay. Appointments can be made by calling 1-844-692-4692 or online. NYC Care provides low-cost or no-cost services to those who can’t afford insurance or lack immigration status that qualifies them for traditional coverage.
Numerous clinics, such as those affiliated with City College, NYU, Fordham, and St. John’s University, also offer reduced-rate services through their graduate programs.
For additional resources and help navigating these options, contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness New York City at 212-684-3264. Remember: you’re not alone. Help is available, and brighter days are ahead.
## Battling Winter Blues: An Expert Interview with Dr. Thea Gallagher
**World Today News:** the holiday season is often portrayed as a joyful time, but for many new Yorkers, the winter months bring on a wave of sadness and challenges to mental health.
**Dr. Thea gallagher:** ThatS absolutely right. While the holidays can be a marvelous time for some, they can also highlight loneliness or amplify existing mental health struggles. The shorter days and colder weather contribute to a phenomenon known as seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which can manifest as fatigue, low energy, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite.
**WTN:** We’ve seen reports from NAMI NYC indicating a 30% surge in helpline calls during winter. What are some of the reasons behind this increase?
**Dr. Gallagher:** Several factors are at play.
* **Sunlight Exposure:** Reduced sunlight during winter months disrupts our circadian rhythm, affecting the balance of hormones like melatonin and serotonin, which regulate sleep and mood.
* **Social isolation:** The cold weather frequently enough encourages people to stay indoors, leading to decreased social interaction, which is crucial for mental well-being.
* **Holiday Pressures:** While the holidays are joyous for many, they can also be a stressful time with pressure to be happy, spend money, and manage familial expectations.
**WTN:** What can New Yorkers do to combat these winter blues?
**Dr. Gallagher:** There are several proactive steps individuals can take:
* **Light Therapy:** Using a light therapy box for 20-30 minutes each morning can definitely help regulate your circadian rhythm and boost mood.
* **Stay Active:** Regular exercise, even indoors, can release endorphins and improve mental health.
* **Maintain Social connection:** Make an effort to connect with friends and loved ones, even if it’s just a virtual coffee date or phone call.
* **Healthy Diet:** Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can nourish your body and mind.
**WTN:** What about those feeling overwhelmed? What resources are available in New york City for those struggling?
**Dr. gallagher:** I encourage anyone experiencing significant distress to reach out for professional help. There are many excellent resources in New York city, including:
* **NAMI NYC:** They offer support groups, educational programs, and a helpline staffed by trained professionals.
* **NYC Well:** This comprehensive mental health resource provides free and confidential support 24/7 through phone, text, and chat.
* **Community Mental Health Centers:** There are numerous community centers throughout the city that offer affordable mental health services.
**WTN:** What final words of advice would you offer to New Yorkers facing the winter months?
**Dr. Gallagher:** remember, you’re not alone. Winter can be a challenging time for many, but there are things you can do to protect your mental health. Be kind to yourself, prioritize self-care, and reach out for support if you need it.There is hope, and spring will arrive eventually.
