By Janet Coulter, MSN, MS, RN, CCM, FCM
When the days grew shorter and temperatures dropped, did you experience a change in your mood and a decrease in your energy level? For some of us, winter means celebrating the big holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. The smell of turkey baking in the oven, the taste of hot cocoa in front of a warm fireplace, the sound of Christmas carols playing almost everywhere, and the sight of New Years Eve fireworks in the sky — all signs that we are in the last months of the year. But with that cheerful and cozy atmosphere comes shorter, colder, and darker days, which can also give us a sense of gloominess and loneliness. For professional case managers, understanding the impact of seasonal changes on mental health is crucial, both for personal well-being and for supporting clients who may struggle during this time.
The winter blues are a common phenomenon characterized by a mild decrease in energy and mood. While these changes do not typically disrupt daily functioning, some individuals may experience more severe symptoms that interfere with work performance and personal relationships. Women and individuals living in northern regions such as Alaska and New England where daylight hours are significantly reduced, are particularly vulnerable to seasonal mood shifts. A more severe form of seasonal mood disturbance is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a subtype of major depressive disorder. Unlike the winter blues, SAD can occur in any season and significantly impacts daily life. Individuals with winter-pattern SAD experience depressive symptoms primarily in the fall and winter, whereas those with summer-pattern SAD struggle with symptoms during spring and summer.
Human beings are inherently social, and maintaining strong connections is vital for mental health. Research indicates that social isolation and loneliness contribute to adverse health outcomes, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, and even premature death. For case managers, recognizing signs of seasonal mood disturbances in clients and encouraging social engagement can be an essential aspect of holistic care. Maximizing light exposure by opening blinds and curtains during the day to allow natural light indoors, spending time outdoors when possible, and considering the use of light therapy boxes that simulate natural sunlight (after consulting with a healthcare professional) can be beneficial. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, proteins, and vegetables helps sustain energy levels. Engaging in regular physical activity such as stretching, walking, or participating in exercise classes can boost endorphin levels and improve mood.
Encouraging clients to maintain social interactions, whether through group activities, volunteering, or community engagement, can foster well-being. Planning social events or personal projects that create positive anticipation and enhance emotional health contributes to overall stability. Developing a structured daily routine helps maintain a sense of stability and motivation. Monitoring mental health and seeking professional support is crucial. Encouraging self-awareness by tracking seasonal mood patterns and implementing proactive coping strategies can help individuals navigate challenges. If symptoms persist and significantly impact daily life, seeking medical guidance for therapy, medication, or a combination of both may be necessary. Cultivating a strong support system, including friends, family, and mental health professionals, provides additional aid in managing seasonal challenges.
As professional case managers, it is essential to recognize the impact of seasonal mood changes on both personal well-being and client populations. By implementing strategies to mitigate the effects of the winter blues and SAD, individuals can maintain emotional resilience and overall health throughout the colder months. Encouraging clients to engage in self-care, social activities, and professional support, when necessary, ensures comprehensive case management that fosters holistic well-being.
American Psychiatric Association. (2020). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Seasonal Affective Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov.
Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). Winter Depression: Seasonal Affective Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Mental Health and Social Isolation. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov
Bio: Janet Coulter, MSN, MS, RN, CCM, FCM is President of CMSA. She is a transplant case manager with a wide variety of experiences including educator, administrator, team leader, and Director of Case Management. Janet holds a Master of Science in Nursing from West Virginia University and a Master of Science in Adult Education from Marshall University. She has published many articles in CMSA Today and the Professional Case Management Journal and served as a reviewer for the Core Curriculum for Case Management Third Edition. She has served as President-Elect of CMSA, Chair of the CMSA Today Editorial Board, Chair of the Nominations Committee, and Vice-President of the CMSA Foundation board. Janet was the recipient of the CMSA National Award of Service Excellence and Southern Ohio Valley CMSA Case Management Leadership award and was recently inducted as a Case Management Fellow from CMSA.