Winter is practically here, meaning cold days, snow, freezing rain, and less outside activity. Sitting inside watching Christmas movies by the fire with hot chocolate probably sounds like the best idea. But, for students and people in general who suffer from depression, anxiety, eating disorders (especially around the holidays), and kids in unsafe homes, what does this winter mean for them??

As covid numbers are rising rapidly in the country, it is getting less safe, not to mention the fact that winter is already the cold/flu season. According to the Washington Post, there were over 3,000 deaths on Thursday, December 11th.  because of this virus. Being around more people than needed is not the best idea, but this can affect the people suffering with their mental health greatly.  

For some people, being isolated feels better to them and they don’t mind it, which is totally okay. But for the ones who need to see friends or family, especially around this time of year, it’s tough. They aren’t getting the distractions or benefits they would normally get or feel if they could be with others. Going out can help drastically, and right now that seems nearly impossible. The same goes for kids in unsafe households — they have nowhere to escape to. Not even school. 

Needless to say, this winter is going to be very tough for many people. For me, being stuck inside is the worst possible thing, so I try to make it fun. I love The Office because it’s just so funny to me and it makes me laugh a lot, so that helps. You could watch a show that makes you laugh, like I do, or you could bake cookies, redo your room, clean out your closet, and maybe even just take pictures if you think it will help you (also a good confidence booster!).  Check in on the people you care about this season. Text them, call them, send them mail, something small that is meaningful. If you want to go higher, maybe drop off a little food or some of their favorite snacks with a note to let them know you care about them. It’s not a lot, but it makes a difference.