The season may change, but your sadness doesn’t have to stay. Here’s how to stop seasonal depression from sneaking in and stealing your joy again this year.
For some reason, every year when I turn the clock back, it signals the start of seasonal depression. I’m more aware of it now and have learned to get ahead of it, but it’s still a yearly struggle.
The interesting thing is, fall is my favorite time of year. I love sipping hot coffee on cool mornings wrapped in a cozy blanket. And where I live, the autumn colors are gorgeous! There doesn’t seem to be any rhyme or reason why depression should affect me this time of year, and yet it does.
What about you? Do the shorter days and longer nights bring about feelings of unease? Do you find it harder to wake up in the mornings? Is there a sense of heaviness you can’t seem to shake?
If you’re battling the familiar pull of seasonal depression, I pray this post will help you get ahead of it with both practical and Spiritual tips for a brighter, happier season.
Getting Ahead Means Falling in Step
“If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25 ESV)
I love the imagery of Galatians 5:25, which paints the picture of walking in step with the Holy Spirit. I picture myself on a treelined, sunlit path, hand-in-hand with the Lord. There’s no temptation to run ahead or lag. Only a gentle, easy pace is set by my Savior who loves me and wants to spend time with me.
Let this peaceful imagery help you get ahead of seasonal depression as you focus on matching God’s pace for your life. In the areas you’ve been racing ahead, stop and align yourself with His stride. And if you’ve been lagging, stifled by doubt or fear, reach for His hand to pull you along. Like a loving father who guides his child safely through crowded spaces, your Heavenly Father leads you through the cluttered spaces in your mind. With your eyes fixed on Him, let Him lead you by His gentle Spirit.
Lord, please slow my pace when I’m tempted to run ahead and pull me along when I’m lagging. Draw me to Your side, for with You, there is perfect peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Another Helpful Resource for Your Journey: A Prayer to Stay in Step with God’s Spirit
Getting Ahead Means Giving Things Up
Reevaluating your commitments and removing unnecessary obligations can help prevent seasonal depression. If you think about it, there are many things we’re capable of but not necessarily called by God to accomplish.
When we’re overextended, it’s easy to want to shut down, which often adds to the heaviness of seasonal depression. We start making excuses, avoid social gatherings, and slip into self-isolation. This becomes an unhealthy pattern of overextending ourselves out of guilt, then protecting ourselves through isolation. Depression deepens as we let this cycle continue season after season.
It’s ok to say “no” to things, even good things. Having fewer commitments might be just what you need at this time. Pray for God’s guidance and be willing to give up more burdensome than beneficial things. Focus on small, intentional things you can do daily to connect with God and those you love.
Lord, I feel guilty when I’m not busy enough, but then I get overwhelmed and want to shut down. Please help me determine what you would like me to do. I surrender all my plans and activities, trusting You to guide my commitments in the days ahead. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Another Helpful Resource for Your Journey: Is it Your Calling or an Over-Commitment?
Getting Ahead Means Praying Powerfully
Do your prayers seem shallow or generic these days? Do you feel like your communication with God is somehow blocked? If so, change the way you pray.
The Scriptures breathe life into your prayers by powerfully proclaiming God’s truth. Depression doesn’t stand a chance when you stand on the Lord’s promises! You can and overcome anything by the anointed, holy Word of God.
Get ahead of seasonal depression by praying intentionally and powerfully. Start by agreeing with God and aligning yourself with Him. Say, “Lord, I align myself with You, the only True God.” Follow this prayer by rebuking the enemy's lies and asking the Lord to surround you with His angel armies.
Here are a few powerful verses to pray aloud:
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10)
“You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4 NKJV)
Resist letting seasonal depression halt your prayer life. Diligently spend time in prayer and petition, making your requests known to God. Let the Scriptures become your powerful weapon, defeating every bit of sadness, heaviness, and fear.
Lord, my prayers sometimes fall flat, and I’m not sure You hear me. Raise me up to pray powerfully in Your name, the name above all names. I proclaim Your Living Word today, expecting seasonal depression to be lifted. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.
Another Helpful Resource for Your Journey: A Prayer When it Feels Like Depression Is Getting the Best of You
Getting Ahead Means Making Practical Changes
We often get stuck in a rut because it’s how we’ve always done things. This can lead to seasonal depression when we continue in unhealthy cycles and unproductive routines. Making practical changes can make a real difference in how we feel, and it’s important to get ahead of the game before we lose motivation. Here’s a list of small, practical steps to take:
• Reduce your screen time, especially before bed.
• Go outside for at least 20 minutes each day.
• Drink plenty of water and minimize caffeine.
• Be mindful of what you’re watching or listening to.
• Schedule regular date nights with your spouse.
• Try something new like painting, sculpting, or writing.
Avoid the autumn blues by changing your routine and implementing things that bring joy. Make the people in your life a priority and find ways to spend quality time together. Getting ahead of seasonal depression will require you to shake things up, so don’t be afraid to try new things. There are both practical and spiritual things you can do to minimize the effects of depression and truly enjoy the season.
Lord, You know how easy it is for me to fall into the same old habits that only fuel seasonal depression. Please motivate me to make necessary changes to enjoy this beautiful season with You and those I love. In Jesus’ name, amen.
More Helpful Resources for Your Journey:
10 Bible Verses to Combat Seasonal Depression
6 Important Things to Know about Seasonal Depression
10 Things You Can Do Now to Prepare Yourself for Seasonal Depression
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Nevena1987
