How can I manage SAD in me and my pet?
Make the most of the daylight
Since the production of both melatonin and serotonin is dependent on the amount of daylight your body is exposed to, try to give yourself and your pet as much natural light as possible. This can be achieved by scheduling walks during sunny hours instead of heading out in the dark.
Keep active
Whilst you’ll probably feel like staying in and curling up on the sofa when it’s cold and dark, it’s good to keep as active as you can to help combat the winter blues. Getting out and about and doing a bit of exercise can do wonders for mental, as well as physical, happiness as it helps release serotonin, your happy hormone!
Keep in touch
Making sure you keep in touch with your friends, family and even neighbours over the colder months can help you feel less isolated. If you have a dog, you could even check for any local meet-ups or plan a walk with someone nearby.
Find some time to play
Play is just as beneficial as exercise as it’s another way to help boost serotonin levels in the brain. This can all be done inside if your pet is less inclined to head out into the cold. While playing with your canine companion or feline friend shouldn’t be limited to the winter months, it is a good way to keep busy and stay happy.
Easy interactive games to play with your pet
Hide and seek – hide their favourite toy or treat and let them try and find it.
Training – why not try teaching them some new tricks?
DIY puzzles – get creative!
Don’t pressure yourself
It’s important not to push yourself and do too much as this can have the opposite effect and negatively impact your mood when things don’t quite go to plan. It can sometimes help to make smaller changes that are more frequent rather than trying to tackle big plans too suddenly.
