There’s no doubt that we’re living in extreme times. From Minneapolis and across the country, social media feeds are filled with intense, highly distressing news about community protests, fatal shootings by immigration agents, children and families being detained, and other stressful events. These events have rightly sparked public outrage, protests, and a broader sense of tension permeating many facets of everyday life.

Winter can feel heavy. Shorter days, colder weather, and the end-of-year holiday stress can leave many of us feeling drained, unmotivated, or low in energy. It’s normal to notice these changes, and it doesn’t mean something is wrong or that you have seasonal depression. Many people experience seasonal shifts in their mood, sleep, and motivation. 

The holiday season is often depicted as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration, but for many people, it can be a challenging and lonel