How to Cope With Portland’s Gloomy Winters

It’s that time of year when Portland’s gray weather can make even the most cheerful feel down. Seasonal depression is a very real thing, and for those already struggling, it can be incapacitating. So, we’re spending this entire week talking with experts about a whole range of ways to protect our mental health.

After her husband’s suicide, Sheila Hamilton dedicated her life to demystifying and normalizing conversations about mental health. She founded BeyondWell, a company and podcast that provides mental health services and training. We asked Sheila for her best advice to cope with our gloomy winters.

Here’s a list of resources Sheila recommends:

• If you or anyone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, you can always call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. There’s help available 24 hours a day.
• Here’s a link to crisis line numbers across Oregon.
• Here’s a directory of mental health resources in Multnomah County.
• Resources to help with Seasonal Affective Disorder, including light therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. 
• How We Feel app
• Positive Intelligence app

What are you doing to cope with Portland winters? Shoot us an email at [email protected], or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448.

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