"Winter is coming; we must make haste!" Unfortunately our winter is already here before the next season of Game of Thrones, so I suppose the mythical land of Westeros won't be much help in surviving the cold this year. Note that I am not hating on christmas or snow or presents that you end up returning, cookies your grandmother bakes, or any other custom that winter brings. I am hating on the lack of light. Light stabilizes serotonin in your nervous system. Serotonin is food for the mind and something so essential that without it, some pretty dark thoughts may churn in that pretty little head of yours.

So what do you do when the darknight rises? (hah.) Well, for starters eat lots of D-vitimin. Swallow it, drink it, snort it. These little buggers provide some artificial light that the sun naturally emits. Sleep well and eat well. Keep in mind that "well" does not mean a shit ton. Healthy amounts lie between 7-8 hours of sleep and 5 small portions of food daily. Drink lots of tea. Even if you hate tea. Tea is your friend. (If not, add sugar.) Light candles, lots of them. Before you fall asleep, think of 5 things that you succeeded with that day. Allow praise and don't overthink. Plan to have some alone-time at least once a week for yourself. Exercise to get your endorphins going or just fuck a lot. Lastly, remember to take things one small step at a time. You will get there, don't worry.

Disclaimer: I am in no way giving professional advice and speaking strictly from experience. I am diagnosed with MDD (major depressive disorder) and not SADs (seasonal affective disorder). However, these tips have really helped me. Good luck!