Tackling the winter blues in a pandemic

Canadian winters are tough for most. Shorter days, grey skies, and below freezing temperatures can all contribute to a lack of motivation and decrease in mood. With the added pressure of restrictions and uncertainty caused by the pandemic, many may be experiencing the “winter blues.” This can mean fatigue, sadness, difficulty concentrating and other waves of low emotions.

So how can you prioritize your mental health and wellbeing this winter semester? We asked Ryerson’s new mental health lead, Erica McDiarmid.

An introduction to Erica

With nearly 10 years of experience and a lifelong passion for working in the mental health field, McDiarmid brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this critical university role. She has experience addressing mental health through positions held in the public, private and non-profit sectors, including positions at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the Canadian Mental Health Association and as a consultant.

In collaboration with partners from across campus and the community, McDiarmid will focus on developing and leading the university’s mental health strategy. She will also be working on developing strategies to increase access to mental health supports for all students, faculty and staff.

“We are living in a time when attention to mental health impacts is so critical and it excites me that Ryerson is committed to prioritizing mental health,” said McDiarmid. “I am thrilled to come into an institution with the strong value of people first and look forward to helping turn vision, strategies and plans into actions that ultimately support the mental well-being of our entire university community.”

Tips and tricks for coping in 2022

“The first thing to recognize and understand is that we are living in unprecedented times and it is normal to feel like you are struggling with your wellbeing. You are not alone,” says McDiarmid. If you are feeling low or unmotivated, know that other people are also feeling this way. It’s important to acknowledge that the pandemic has exacerbated feelings of uneasiness, nervousness, and frustration as there continues to be uncertainty about what the next few months will bring. While we cannot predict or control what may happen with regards to the pandemic, we can take positive steps in our own lives. Here are some strategies to help boost your wellbeing while living in these uncertain times:

1. Connect with others – Reach out to friends, family, peers, or colleagues for social connection and engagement to overcome isolation and boredom. Invite a friend for a virtual coffee. Start a group chat with peers.

2. Build a daily routine – Create a personalized schedule that incorporates time for studying, socializing, exercise, meals, sleep, and your self-care activities. Having a regular routine can help with focus and motivation.

3. Screen-free time – With so many aspects of our lives going virtual, stepping away from our screens can provide an energy boost for our brains and bodies. Use this time to do an activity you enjoy.

4. Get outside – Get outside when the sun is out for fresh air or exercise. If you are unable to easily access outdoor space safely,  invest in a happy lamp that mimics sunlight (with 10,000 lumens). Sunlight releases serotonin in your brain and can help boost your mood and help you feel calm and focused.

5. Practice self-compassion – The pandemic has introduced many obstacles to make living and learning even more challenging than it normally is. Show yourself kindness and compassion during this time, recognizing that what you are feeling and experiencing is valid and shared with many others.

Mental health supports at Ryerson

While the above advice can help to increase your overall mood, if you are struggling and need additional mental health support, particularly during these uncertain times, the university has a number of mental health and well-being supports and resources available:

• The Centre for Student Development and Counselling, offers free, confidential counselling services in a professional and friendly environment
  
  
• The Medical Centre offers quality health services to current students and employees at Ryerson
  
  
• Consent Comes First provides support to Ryerson community members affected by sexual violence
  
  
• Wellbeing at Work comprises a number of resources designed to help Ryerson employees in their personal and professional lives
  
  
• The Ryerson Mental Health and Wellbeing Committee leads projects and produces resources aimed at creating systemic, innovative and university-wide solutions for student, staff and faculty mental health