TRURO, N.S. — January is a tough month for a lot of people. The holidays are over, winter has begun in full force, and it’s dark outside at 4:30 p.m. most days. With all of these things coming at you at once, it’s difficult not to feel a little blue. That’s why this week I wanted to focus on bringing you some tips that can help get you through the “January Blues.”
Important note: If you feel particularly bleak and sad in the fall through to the colder, darker months of the year, every year, you may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder. Even if you’re not sure, it is worth speaking to a doctor about. If your doctor cannot give you all the answers, they can refer you to a specialist who can. If talking to someone face to face is too big a step to begin with, below are some helplines for those who are suffering.
With Bell Let’s Talk Day coming up, it’s important to be reminded about starting these conversations. You do not have to shoulder this burden alone; there are people who can, and want to help you.
Now that Christmas is over, it’s typical to assume that just because the holidays have passed, winter now sucks and there’s no fun left in the season. That’s all crap. I don’t want to fall into the negative mindset of those who hate the season now that they aren’t getting presents out of it. There are many entertaining things you can do in Truro and the surrounding area that are totally worth burying yourself in four layers of clothing.
The first is to go skating at Civic Square, in front of Colchester-East Hants Public Library. This is a fun activity you can do outside and get some exercise at the same time. And it’s completely free, assuming you own skates or can borrow from someone you’re close to. This spot is usually pretty busy, but if you go early in the morning, around supper-time or just before sunset, it shouldn’t be too crowded.
Sugar Moon Farm is a great place to spend an afternoon. You can grab a tour, learn how to make maple syrup, walk the trails, and finish off with a delicious meal. My family goes once a year and it’s something I look forward to the entire winter season. Spending a Saturday or Sunday there would not be a disappointment
Another great place to visit in the winter is Peggy’s Cove. Most people enjoy said destination in the summer, but in my opinion, the view is much prettier in the winter time. The snow changes the entire look and feel of the lighthouse as well. It would be wise to go for a milder winter day though, so the wind is not too strong.
This goes for any other beach or lake that’s close to home. While it is quite cold, a winter beach walk is just as nice as a summer one. I think it’s because you feel kind of out of place on the beach in the winter; it’s a really different feeling than the one you get lounging on the sand in the summer.
The January Blues are a real thing in the Northern Hemisphere – something that we can choose to let decide our mood this month, or one we can choose to actively dispose of. Start your month off on the right foot, take a trip to one of the places I mentioned.
As well, the most important thing this season, talk if you need to talk, and ask for help if you need it.
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
Mental Health Crisis Line: 1-888-429-8167
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Angèle Hatton is a Grade 12 student at Cobequid Educational Centre who hopes to pursue a career in journalism.
