Dealing with Seasonal Blues in Wellington Winters

Grey skies, cold winds, and shorter days are all that come with a Wellington winter.
Some people just wrap up warm and get on with things, but others feel a dip in mood, energy, or motivation when the colder months roll around.
This low mood, often referred to as the seasonal blues, can make daily life heavier than it needs to be.
If you think you are having difficulty during winter, you are not alone and there are easy things you can do to improve how you feel.

Here follow advice for recognizing and managing the seasonal blues, as well as resources locally in Wellington.

1. Recognize the Signs

The seasonal blues can manifest differently for everyone, but common experiences are:

Feeling sad or grumpy for most days

Low levels of energy and feeling more tired

Sleeping more than usual

Craving sweets or high carbohydrate foods

Difficulty sustaining concentration or interest

When these occur for weeks and begin to interfere with work, interpersonal relationships, or daily functioning, professional help can be useful.

2. Make the Most of Natural Light

Sunlight is a major contributor to mood and sleep regulation.
Even on gloomy Wellington days, attempt:

Spending a little time outside every day in the morning or at lunchtime

Opening curtains wide to admit maximum daylight

Sit beside windows when working or relaxing

Doses of natural light can re set internal body clock and boost mood.

3. Be Physically Active

Exercise releases endorphins that naturally boost mood.
Consider:

Vibrant walks along Wellington waterfront or Botanic Garden tracks

Exercise indoors like yoga, pilates, or dance classes

Home workouts of short duration if it’s howling outside

Regular movement in 10 minute intervals may cure winter blues.

4. Stay Connected Socially

It is easy to batten down indoors when the weather turns cold, but social connection is important.
Make time to:

Arrange coffee meet ups or dinner with friends or whānau

Join a group or winter activity class

Catch up with loved ones over the phone or video call if it’s hard to meet in person

Connection reminds you that you’re not alone and provides emotional warmth in the dark times.

5. Have a Balanced Routine

Consistency stabilizes mood.
Try to:

Establish the same bedtime and rising time every day

Eat regular, wholesome meals with lots of fruits and vegetables

Limit the use of alcohol, which depresses and disrupts sleep

Simple routine gives a sense of control when the weather does not seem cooperative.

6. Seek Professional Assistance When Needed

When lifestyle changes alone are not enough or symptoms appear overwhelming, professional help can bring relief and guidance.
Seeing a trained therapist helps to navigate feelings, identify triggers, and develop personal coping strategies.

Anchor Counselling Wellington provides a warm and understanding space where you can talk openly about what you are experiencing.
You can choose comfortable in person sessions in central Wellington or secure online appointments, both designed to support you through the winter months and beyond.

Key Takeaway

Wellington winter can be hard to handle, but you don’t have to handle it by yourself.
Being active, receiving natural light, being in touch with others, and seeing a professional counsellor when needed will protect your wellbeing and find light in the darkest corners.