Some days, the European winter challenges me. It usually happens when the house falls silent after everyone has departed for their respective destinations. In the dim light, the stark trees become more pronounced. The landscape, cloaked in ice, takes on a sombre tone. While the wind howls around the corners, a sense of desolation envelops me. This feeling begs me to board a train and escape. Anywhere outside the house is preferable.

European long, cold, and grey winters

The cold and dark conditions begin as early as October. Towards the end of October, the clocks are set back by an hour to ensure that children do not have to go to school in complete darkness. November often brings extended periods of fog, shrouding Zurich. The first snowfall and Advent during December usually change the atmosphere with light and a sense of excitement. In January, the silhouettes of the bare trees only become visible later in the day against the faint light. At this stage, my entire being yearns for a new season, but usually, at this stage, there are still two more months of winter conditions ahead.

The winter’s greyness and desolation pose the most significant challenge for me. Cold temperatures are manageable as our apartment has good insulation, and we’ve equipped ourselves with suitable layers of thermal clothing for venturing outside. I’ve learned the importance of a hat, scarf, gloves, and winter shoes to tackle the cold outdoors. However, it’s the pervasive desolation and lack of colour that becomes truly unbearable.

Seasonal depression

I find myself feeling tired, lethargic, and anxious, and my self-discipline wanes, especially with comfort food. These symptoms align with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition many people grapple with. People often refer to SAD as Winter Depression. The shortage of sunlight is a major contributing factor. The reduced exposure to sunlight alters our biological clocks, regulating crucial aspects such as mood, sleep, and hormones like serotonin and melatonin.

For many people, SAD lasts five months, starting in October. January and February tend to be the months with the most severe symptoms of depression. Research indicates that seasonal depression is more prevalent among women and teenagers.

Fortunately, I am aware that this heaviness will dissipate with the arrival of spring. The certainty of the changing seasons is something I can cling to for solace. To navigate this period, I make it a point to embark on a long daily walk. The signs of spring gradually emerging instil hope within me. In addition, the combination of exercise, sunlight, and vitamin D helped elevate my serotonin levels.

Surviving SAD

I’ve come to appreciate the importance of incorporating light in various forms into my daily routine. Whenever feasible, I try to bask in natural light or utilize candles and lamps. Like light, colour has a significant effect on mood. I opt for vibrant hues in both my clothing choices and artistic pursuits.

Journaling and positive interactions with other people increase my emotional and spiritual light. The annual Winter market at school also creates many opportunities to get involved as a volunteer. Embracing hobbies like baking, puzzles, Lego, and paint-by-numbers has also become a means of cultivating positivity during the winter months.

The European winters increased my compassion for clinical depression

The European winter has deepened my compassion and empathy for individuals dealing with clinical depression. We walked a depression path with a close family member. It was extremely challenging to experience a physically strong young man’s struggle with depression. Despite our efforts to help, we often felt inadequate and powerless in the face of his battle with depression.

Clinical depression is a medical condition that necessitates the assistance of a doctor and therapist. For those with a loved one grappling with depression, the experience is fraught with constant fear. Receiving the dreaded call leaves you grappling with emotions that take a long time to process.

There is beauty in every season

The European winters have taught me to find beauty in every season. Even on gloomy and chilly days, I actively seek out things that act as sunshine to my soul and bring me joy.

I salute In the words of Albert Camus,

In the depths of winter, I finally learned that there is an invincible summer within me.

Kind regards

Emsia