How to beat WINTER blues | Mental Health Awareness | Bushcraft | Seasonal Affective Disorder

[@OehlJim]

Having an energetic dog is a huge help, as the requirement of walking your dog gets you outdoors and into a healthy routine.

[@richardh1764]

Yup, just got a husky, staying in just isn't an option anymore.

[@anxen]

I suffer very badly with SAD when not living in the countryside, it's a urban living disease of having to go into office before light and not going home until dark.

[@richard766723]

same here, lunchtime walks are a must

[@ollie2052000]

When we realise we are talking to ourselves in ways we’d never dream of talking to anyone else; then we can see the need to be kinder to ourselves.

[@oldbaldguy6151]

I've just got back to work after being off for 3 weeks with depression. SAD is not usually a problem but this year and with everything over the last year and a half it was an overload for me. First thing I did was get out hiking all day with a mate, made a world of difference! Still a work in progress but it's going forward 👍

[@ricardodafonseca9043]

Similar story mate. Going back tomorrow

[@oldbaldguy6151]

@@ricardodafonseca9043 Best of luck

[@jeffclarkofclarklesparkle3103]

Try simple yellow glasses in the grey months. I don't know if it does anything scientifically but it makes me feel a lot better. Cheap yellow safety glasses might be a help

[@oldbaldguy6151]

@@jeffclarkofclarklesparkle3103 thanks, I'll give that a try. I use bright 6500k led bulbs at home and essential oils to lift the mood too.

[@Petestleger]

As a sufferer of chronic depression, yes yes yes. Keep an eye on yourself, be honest with yourself, ask others who you trust how they think you're doing, get whatever help and guidence you can as soon as you can. I don't, and it gets messy. Thank you Nick for highlighting this.

[@fistsmcnasty]

I've just spent the last week wallowing. I wasn't sure what it was, but you've just hit the nail on the head. I'm gonna go for a walk!

[@markevans506]

I’m originally from Ireland and now live in the US Midwest. I dread the day we put the clocks back ! Winter in Iowa can be absolutely brutal compared to the British isles. I have found it harder and harder each winter but getting out with my dogs is a savior and finding beauty in each season is crucial. The natural world is the best TV show.

[@linedwell]

I started a new job recently. It's in a store house, no windows, no green, just concrete and computers. Before that, I would be in the woods 4 out of 7 days, I'm struggling tbh. I miss the woods, the tarp, the twig stove, my Trangia, the wind, the sun, the rain, the smells, the cold, the heat. So on and so on. I should be happy right now, new job, new people, more cash... but my thoughts are in the woods... It makes no sense to me and I don't know of it's SAD or if I'm just melancholy.

[@p3ggy80]

Sounds like you had it sussed before and now you have gone away from it. I honestly dream of what you had. I also work with computers all day. Just need to find a way to combine the two. Much easier said than done. Take care of yourself.

[@carolineowen7846]

? how about a job as a postal delivery person?

[@georgedonnellan36]

Get a dog, or a cat...all the best to you...!

[@rosehippyguy3402]

Its affected me for all of my adult life and I'm almost 50. I get out with my dogs as often as I can, around nature and it really does help. I used to wild camp a lot, in all seasons but hindered now with a back injury. Still gotta get out there folks. Much love to all of my beautiful brothers and sisters out there 👊💜👊

[@JoelAaargh]

Not something I've particularly felt affected by - with a dog, two young kids and a lovely wood nearby I've no excuses not to be out every day - but I've certainly had low periods and know the importance of actively striving to improve your own mindset. These videos are so important, thanks for keeping them coming 👍🏻

[@PixelMind50]

I realised in my 20s that I suffered with SAD, and my life at the time was very indoor/urban based. I tried using a sad lamp, but didn’t find much benefit from it. On turning 30, I began volunteering in environmental conservation, and this lead on to working outdoors for a living, year round in all weathers, within that sector. During that time I barely, if ever, felt the effects of SAD because my life was completely outdoor based, soaking up every bit of daylight. Sadly at the age of 37, life threw me a curveball when I randomly suffered a brain haemorrhage while at work. Thankfully I survived, but recovery has been slow, and I have been left with chronic fatigue, severe anxiety (possibly PTSD) and depression. Although I still tried to get out for walks with the kids, the fatigue massively reduced my energy levels, and my ability to do this. Definitely the winters have been much more difficult again with the return of the effects of SAD. Now, aged 41, I feel like I may be starting to emerge from the other side of this episode in life. Fatigue still haunts me, but is gradually loosening its grip over time. I don’t yet feel like I can get back out and keep up with the responsibility, reliability and expectations of employment, however building on my prior outdoor experience and skills, I have been enjoying learning and exploring bushcraft activities, nature walks, occasional camping, geocaching, foraging and herbalism with my kids. Life is slower now, as I have no choice but to listen to my body, but I think that is a good thing! Possibly one of the big lessons I have needed to learn from this whole experience. One that society as a whole needs to learn, I believe. Being able to get out more has been working wonders for my well-being again, and watching your videos, Nick, has been a great inspiration to our family. So thanks for all that you do! Cheers!

[@fredrikandreasson2253]

Really important video. There are thousands of videos about making fire in rain and finding water in the desert. Happy to find how to bushcrafting mental health. Living in Sweden I got plenty of light in summer and so much darkness in winter. For me it's the periods when everything changes, autumn and spring, that can be a challenge. I usually have some weeks in October-November and in March-April when my mind is really affected. Since I got my dog a few years ago I feel much better. I have always been an outdoor person, but my dog needs exercise every single day. It has helped me a lot. Thanks for a great video

[@albertmarti2718]

Great points brought up. Since I moved from the countryside to the city a couple years ago SAD has really been hitting hard. The only caveat is that you gave an example for people who drive cars. For the last few years, I've been commuting on my bike and I can tell you that no amount of waterproof gear makes biking in the rain enjoyable. But you gotta do what you gotta do.

[@ksturmer5388]

One of the best things I ever did was to get a Siberian Husky for my PTSD. I now, have to get my arse outside in wind, rain, snow and ice and I absolutely LOVE it!!! Walking, camping and being at peace when you are outside, is priceless. Great video, Nick!

[@Tykepaints]

Thanks Nick - SAD is something I’ve experienced to varying degrees for a while but never knew what it was until recently. I didn’t understand why my mood got low and I let myself go over the winter. This meant I got angry and frustrated with myself which then just became an endless cycle of negative thinking. I found SAD isn’t taken as seriously as it should be because what so many don’t appreciate (I was one of those people) is how it can act as a trigger for more serious problems such as depression.

[@FidoHouse]

Love the statement, "No bad weather, just bad clothing". We're good at planning layers for hot and cold, but often forget to plan for the wet so that we can make being outside in rain and grey more pleasant. History of chronic depression, with SAD superimposed while living in far north, (Yukon). Medication helped with underlying depression. Grow lights in my home's windows for my plants, set on timers to help me get started in the mornings and last longer in the evenings were a huge help. When I retired at 60 I left the Yukon because I had no desire to be trying to figure out how to pay the heating bills on a pension, nor spending my time twiddling my thumbs in the dark. Now I travel as a fulltime RVer and, (as borders open), spend more of winter farther south. Just last winter I graduated off of the antidepressants but must pay attention to taking Vitamin B Complex supplements to manage anxiety and periods of inertia. I also have had canine companions for many years - two to 12 at a time - and they have certainly helped save me from myself, "guilting" me into going outside, at least to take them for walks, if not for myself. And I'm always surprised how much better I feel after having been out - even on the greyist of days. Really makes a difference. Great video. Really appreciate all you've said. Cheers from southern Alberta, Canada 🇨🇦

[@banksarenotyourfriends]

Couldn't agree more about resetting your perspective being key to your general happiness. I find focusing on my favourite things about the winter, and trying to be grateful for them really helps - e.g. when I'm camping in winter there's no ticks, there are fewer interruptions from other people when I'm out, there's no ticks, there's less wildfire risk, there's no ticks, the darker nights make the stars more impressive, there's no ticks... etc ;)

[@trevorday7979]

As ever Nick, great vid with great insight and sharing. Got out bush last weekend and was the 1st time in a long time more than 6 hrs sleep. What a recharge! Spring here in Aus, so great time of year with late showers & storms and people often ask, “but what if it rains?” My answer, “either strip down and soap up or put a raincoat on, it’s not rocket science” Keep ‘em coming mate!

[@duanes4640]

I have often said the only way to enjoy winter is to get out in it, doing something other than scraping the car off or driving in it. This puts it more in focus. Love the whole stop demonizing the weather. So true

[@createlovehappy]

Real talk. Well done! I’ve been in this fight for decades. Now got cancer to deal by with as well. Self care is on a whole new level. Every bite I eat, sleep, fresh air, playtime, all of it helps. Walking is so good for me. I relate to all you are saying here. Thank you.

[@madgardener5820]

About three years ago I ended two years of working in a woodland. My role back then was to provide learning in conservation, bushcraft, wellbeing and mindfulness. Today I was back there carrying out some maintenance work. I looked up and watched a leaf as it fell from its oak tree parent. I decided to catch the leaf, and continuing to look up I walked forward. I felt the uneven ground of tree roots and stumps, hollows and mounds under my feet and, I felt aware of my surroundings. Without looking down or tripping, I walked towards the leaf, held out my hands and caught it. I looked at this leaf and realised that it had never touched the forest floor so I placed it on the ground at the foot of its parent and thus its journey was complete. Well, it made sense to me.

[@DukeRaoul-69]

I have PTSD, and unfortunately I suffer from SAD every year, and it has led to depression and anxiety. Also I have moved away from my tribe, to home educate our children in the (very wet) Snowdonia mountains. Although it is a wonderful place to live, the weather in winter is a killer for me. I have 3 permanent fractures in my spine, and osteoporosis in my spine, so the damp and cold cause me a lot of pain and mobility issues, which leads to being stuck indoors all the time, as most days in winter I simply can't get outside. This makes home educating very hard, and very stressful during these months. BUT....Since discovering this channel, and all the amazing work you guys are doing, it has inspired me to make positive changes in both my lifestyle, and the way I control my emotions. I have started wood working and leather work. Which I am finding is helping massively both as a coping mechanism, and a kind of therapy. I have invested in lots of kit to create my own 'Ant-anxiety/depression grab bag'. My bag is full of wood carving kit, basic shelter, hammock, fire lighting and cooking equipment. So on my 'bad days', I can just grab my bag, and walk in to the forest, and allow my mind to quieten down, and just be in the 'moment'. Instead of getting stuck in negative thought patterns whilst being stuck inside. I highly recommend the grab bag for anyone with mental health problems. And in particular, wood working and knife/axe/tool sharpening. I find the act of looking after your tools, to be almost meditation-like, much like carving a spoon or bowl etc. Sorry for the long message, but I hope it might help someone with similar issues. Keep up the amazing work you guys are doing. It has certainly helped me massively.

[@garystroud6153]

Weather! You're right, no such thing as "bad weather" only the wrong clothes! I love being outside regardless of the weather, some of my relatives think I'm mad going out into the forest, stopping and making a brew in the pouring rain.

[@FloridaPete1948]

Great presentation Nick! I moved to the Flathead Valley in NW Montana 20 years ago at age 54. I was warned before moving here by a friend who'd lived in the valley for decades about the dreaded winter "inversions" that the valley experienced frequently during the dead of winter(nominally, November-March). These inversions sometimes last for several weeks. During an inversion, the already short days will be very overcast--dark grey thick low clouds. Temperatures will drop to -10C to -5C and STAY there for several weeks! And not vary more than a couple degrees. And it drives many new residents, especially those from "sunny climates" like California, into serious depression. So locals aren't surprised when April comes and see a procession of U-Haul trailers leaving town headed back to sunnier climates. Being forewarned I was never really bothered by the "bad weather". And I born, raised, and lived in the mild climates of Florida and Virginia. Winter here is certainly much harsher than Virginia, but I embraced it by taking up snowshoeing and recently cross country skiing. Good exercise and opened up more terrain for my landscape photography hobby. That and I've always been a hunter. Successful hunt or not, there's nothing like "creeping" around in the forest when it's -10C and snowing! :) So I'm outdoors all year long doing "something" in the 10's of thousands of acres of the surrounding wilderness. I just spent this past weekend on a "spur of the moment" tent camping trip to do some photography. I took the wrong tent(single wall ultralight) of my many tents, AND the wrong sleeping bag(rated -5C) LOLOL I coped pretty well even though the temp dropped to about -9C 😎 A heavy frost and frozen condensation coating the inside and out of my tent weren't pleasant, but I knew I'd be ok since, as I'm nearly always a solo camper, I came "prepared". Sorry to run on but you are so right! Getting OUTDOORS is sooooo healthy and invigorating . Go guys and gals, Get outside and get happy!! pete USN 1968-74

[@mrspudly1]

Nick could this be described as our instinctual primal urge for survival and shelter from way back and possibly even as animals when we hibernated and still have the urge to stay indoors during the dark winter months. Your fighting your own mindset, no wonder people start to suffer from depression.

[@william3781]

Important, timely, generous, kind, honest, thought-provoking and helpful. The more we talk the less we stigmatise. As a long-term sufferer of depression and SAD, this really hits the mark and I'm so grateful to you for sharing some help and ideas for others to benefit from. I think the impact is greater-felt coming from you with your background, so well done for challenging preconceptions and sharing your vulnerabilities. Thank you. 🙏👊💪

[@a.i.a3949]

I for one love dark and dreary weather, less people about.

[@martinoutdoors6941]

Nick this really resonated with me right at this moment, I’m currently having counselling for depression or low mood. I admit I didn’t watch the video I put my ear buds in, got up from my laptop and listened as I walked down the garden in lovely surprisingly warm sunshine. Thanks

[@bradcleavenger5826]

Thank you for this! I’ve been up against the sleep issues and mourning the end of long days for the last couple weeks. Just being able to name it and then consider concrete steps to mitigate it has put a smile on my face

[@pnyarrow]

Thank you for that - Men must talk, men must share! Stay safe.. ATB. Nigel

[@damongreen6433]

Hi Nick! You're a mate of my mate Nick and just stumbled upon this video - wow, perfect timing! I've been feeling super low. First sunny day in ages, managed to get some free time and went for a walk along the Jurassic Coast. I could feel the happiness and joy coursing through my veins and was thinking jeeeez maybe i've been suffering with SAD. Love the vid; thanks for sharing with us all :)

[@lindsayreid3328]

Excellent! Thank you! Getting outdoors is the best medicine. Encouraged. 👍

[@alouvoss]

Good stuff Nick. I live in the tropics, so no lack of sunshine, but if you live in an aircon apartment, travel to/from work in an aircon car and work in an aircon office, the latitude doesn't count for much, especially if you're working until sunset. I'm not having a wonderful time at the moment, but being open and sharing ones difficulties with select friends certainly does help. It's going to take a while to get out of the proverbial woods, but I'm totally with you on getting outdoors. Try it folks... get out there and breathe in some fresh air. As the song goes, 'the sun will come up tomorrow'... so why not set an early alarm, make a flask of coffee and find a spot to watch to watch it rise? Tomorrow can be better.

[@eireannerussell9211]

You just described the last 15 months of my life...I've been indoors at my computer 12-15 hours a day because of the pandemic. I used to be outdoors a lot. I wasn't aware this could be an issue. Thank you

[@Deanpeach]

Nick I really do hope you know how much you and your videos help people. I am currently battling alcoholism, I came back here to watch a few videos to chill out... Thank you so much for providing a space for that! I am taking myself off into the Peaks next week for a 5 night camp (at a site, not yet confident enough in my law research to go wild camping). This will be my first winter camp and I'm so excited, the planning and organisation has really given me a boost. Keep doing you! ❤

[@tommyatkins2446]

Ill take a wet day in the outdoors over a sunny day in the office any day of the year Im socially withdrawn through circumstance, staring at divorce no2 and `friends` just disappeared. Im ok with that, I love the outdoors in any weather. My haven is the Black mountains in Wales, just epic. I try to get my daughter out in all weathers and she loves it. Yes I wobble, we all do, but get back on the path again its all good. Great message Nick

[@madgardener5820]

Nick's voice is as soft as poplar down or that bit behind a roe deer's front leg, as calming as the morning sunshine. This morning in that high wind my wife and I went for a walk in the fields behind our house. The wind was ferocious and the rain pretty much horizontal. The willow trees were bending, some big branches had come off and I felt cheated that I hadn't experienced that moment. But the degree of happiness we feel together, it felt great to be alive.

[@eddiejefferies3659]

Another superb clip. I'm not good at this time of the year, but not so much with depression, my issue is severe joint pain from spending the last 39 years working outside in pretty much all weathers. Oddly, despite working outside, I still nip out onto the balcony in the evening/ night time to take in the air,. Despite my pain, I can't imagine a life where I couldn't be outside. It is my one essential, and I really feel for anyone that can't readily access open outdoor space. I'm also lucky enough to live by Ashdown Forest, which I take full night time advantage of, and one thing that I often come across is individuals who have come down from London to wild camp. When I speak to any of them, the one common theme is that they do it for their own sanity.

[@SlideRulePirate]

Beautiful landscape. Bracken and Birches... love it. Didn't see any Gorse but you can't have everything.

[@deandowney9316]

Fantastic video. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I have PTSD and the woods are what saved me above any counselling. Thank you for your service.

[@jakedobson3422]

Appreciate the honesty and good advice. Thanks for talking about SAD and depression. It is so important that we have these discussions.

[@leeprice674]

Great video and thanks for discussing this. I have struggled this time of year and as a 56 year old it's affected me for years without me realising its Thing😳 I got into wild camping last October and it made a massive difference just being outside. Lighting a fire, setting up my tent and doing stuff gave me a purpose again. Thanks all and it's a difficult subject, but the 15 minutes outside is my new regime ☀️😊

[@Frank-ej9oc]

True words, Buddy. Repeat and repeat it again... and don´t get tired. 💪

[@dennisthompson9420]

Hello Nick. Just recently subscribed to your channel and really enjoy the stuff you are putting out here. I like the fact that you are discussing topics such as this relating to the outdoors. You are taking it a notch above. As a former US Marine we trained with you guys doing cold weather mountain warfare training in the 80's and have a lot of respect for our British brothers. Keep up the good work Nick.

[@evilawkeye2215]

I’ve suffered with SAD for many years, first time I’ve watched a video which describes the knock on effect when we demonise the weather! I believe I suffer for that very reason, my dad worked outside, he would always moan about the weather when it was wet! It meant a day in the rain without the right gear, come home soaked through moaning again! I’ve changed my mindset and act accordingly!

[@simonwoodward438]

I suffer and as a result try to do as much outside as possible throughout the winter months, in fact more than the summer months. I ride a bike a lot in all weather on or off road all year around, this helps my health and gives me something to look forward to during the week when I am stuck in a windowless workshop.

[@hervana22]

Thanks so much for this message, Nick. I started watching you for outdoorsy techniques and tips on kit etc, but as someone who starts getting fairly down at this time of year you've really given me lots to think about here. I went out and made myself a cup of coffee on a home made alcohol stove today, the chickens pecking about my feet, and even something like that lifts the mood a little. I'm going to try and get out more. I've got a coat, ffs! Thanks again, Nick.

[@p3ggy80]

I take a lot from videos you do on mental health topics. I am in my early 40s and have been diagnosed with ADHD (predominantly Inattentive) and also depression within the last 3 years. The ADHD means my dopamine receptors are impaired compared to most people. Trying to process what is going on with my body and brain and how to get the best from myself for me and my family is a daily challenge. I love the outdoors and have a real interest in bushcraft and wild camping. Your videos are real help. Maybe I will come on a HVB course one day. Keep up the good work Nick. Thanks.

[@mooseyrambling5838]

Good surject Nick, I work in a hospital, I'm ex-military, very ex by the way been out a long time. I'm not medical I'm building craft, maintenance. But I do meet a lot of staff and patience in my role and there is a significant increase at this time of year with this type of problem. I'm very lucky, I do not seem to suffer with these issues " I did a 4 moth expo in the 8o's through winter in Norway and actuality enjoyed the challenge." but I think that's because I'm a glass half full type of guy, rather than glass half empty, positive attitude is always a good starting point, and I know that it is not always easy depending were an individual is and the own circumstance. Thanks for dealing with this subject as I may well lead some people to watch this very useful video. Thanks for brining us along. Regards

[@peklivanas]

I love being outside in all weather, as a family wife and kids in tow we are outdoors, we choose to visit places in the rain as there will be less people if any, I just took 10 kids to the wood for a weekend camp and they where all zipped up in their sleeping bars asleep by 7.30 all there parents were astounded

[@mountainbearoutdoors]

I recently got a whippet for company, he has done wonders for both my and my partners heads, he needs to rack up a few miles a day walking which is great as well, just take an ammo pouch flask of tea and head out for a couple of hours. there is something very comforting being away from all the noise and drama of the daily grind.

[@h.bsfaithfulservant4136]

I feel fortunate that I like the change in seasons… and as it happens Summer is my least favourite time. I do get fed up with gloomy days in the depths of Winter, but those cold, dry and bright days that separate the gloom are the best days of the year for me. Advancing years have taught me that I’m my own worst enemy in a lot of ways, but a bit of exercise in the outdoors and a change in perspective has done me the world of good. And chocolate of course, let’s not forget chocolate 😁🇬🇧

[@spectralgaming5017]

Amazing video! Couldn't be any more spot on! As someone who has suffered with SAD unknowingly for a long time and has over the last year had a terrible time with anxiety and depression I couldn't agree more that the best medicine is a dose of the outdoors! I'm fortunate enough to be based about an hour away from Snowdonia National Park so that's my escape every week or so but on a daily basis the local woods or Park with the doggo 🐕 with a brew is a huuuuuge help! I urge anyone feeling this way to give it a go for a few weeks and see for yourself! Side note: Until recently I've always been a bit hesitant to seek professional help regarding my mental health but it's honestly the best thing I ever did. If anyone's struggling out there you're not alone and there's no shame in asking for support and there will be no judgment or expectation at any point in the process they just give you the tools to help yourself which sometimes is all you need. Apologies for the small essay here people. 😅

[@gregventurevids]

Experiencing SAD in the transition from Winter to Spring is actually a thing some people experience and, aside from generally being prone to depression, is usually when I experience feeling a little off. I never understood it especially since I like Spring.

[@XMarley_Quinnx]

Good video important message

[@Brandon-0028]

First I want to say that I really appreciate your videos and your refined presentation style. Here in the Pacific Northwestern USA I believe we have a similar climate. I was born here and there's nothing more comforting than putting on a rain coat and walking in the patter of the rain. Even when my wife moved here from a much warmer climate, the first thing I did is take her to REI amd load her up with all the proper layers and get her in it. You either embrace the weather or dread it and I always say, get your proper gear and get out in it. And once you are geared up for it you can just focus on the joy of experiencing it. And... keep up on your daily D3. 8-)

[@abedmellal2084]

Very well put, tnx for the video, I know it's an old video but it still very helpful one, I suffer from depression, OCD, PTSD due to my background, I lived in London for 10 VERY LONG YEARS never did me any good, I moved to Ireland 16 years ago to the countryside it did help but still I wasn't in control of what I have, then I started mountain biking, then hiking then camping then kayaking and now I've discovered bushcraft, a combination of all my activities really helped me overcome depression and everything else I have and I'm working on my other issues, your videos do help tremendously and for that I can't thank you enough, well done mate, take care and thank you

[@jimmybrooks1059]

Great vid Nick! It's hard to look at life as a glass half full than half empty. Modern society has spoiled us. We really need to get back to nature. It's a lovely day for rain, snow, the beach, it's just a day but will we see it as lovely or lousy. It's all in the mind🤪😁👍⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@artistgigot2044]

My wonderful dog walks in all kinds of crazy weather, so I do too. 😍

[@PetePPA]

Hi Nik, I've been following your channel for a while now and I have to say I really enjoy your style and your caring attitude. I suffered from depression for many years and I'm very aware of SAD and how it can affect us. You talk a lot of sense and I appreciate where your demons came from and how you've dealt with them. Love the varied content of the channel, keep it up and stay safe and well. Pete

[@joerileijs9970]

What makes a big difference to me, is having a wake up licht. Also indeed get out there, even in a light rain! Quite a few times I have gone on a lunch walk while all my colleagues where afraid of melting. The best is to identify it early on each year again, as it will start al over.

[@si_blacksheep]

Thanks Nick. Insightful and informative… and understanding vid. It’s just rain… not bad weather. Much respect. 👍

[@geoffmaule4103]

I can't agree more as I've suffered from both and think of it as a down ward spiral that can come on at any point that behavioral patterns can spark, but that behavioral patterns can all so help to avoid. Some thing to think about that might help is in stead of rain as bad, make a hot drink shut off any nose and sit and whatch and listen to the rain and slow your thoughts and relax for five minutes, try to see the good in it. Think back to the good memory's as they make you feel good, I've all ways enjoyed the crisp air first thing in the morning when its snowed or there has been a hour frost, or watching ruff see roll on to the coast, yeah you definitely need to stop your self having bad thoughts about the weather or it will just be another trigger.

[@billyaitken1713]

😔👍....a key motivator for us moving to Oz over 20 years ago.🤠🌞☀️

[@HannahAilsa]

Just going into the winter blues season here in New Zealand 😓 June, July, and August are the winter months for us. Thanks for this video 👍🙏

[@davidcann6021]

Great video Nick. Realising there is something that needs changing within yourself or someone else can be really tricky at the time, I'm sure anyone that reflects on their past can see when they've had a dark time in their life. It's upsetting to know of those who have gone too far to ever help again. I think in modern life there's so much boredom now and little appreciation for how long it might take to boil water with fire or heat your house, yet alone having a diet that never varies due to imported food.

[@nickwhite4632]

Your mental health videos are so helpful. I’m watching and thinking after what you’ve been through then I can understand why you’ve had issues. What I struggle with is that I haven’t had those issues, but I have suffered for so many years. So why is that and does it matter? And I’ve realised it doesn’t matter what’s caused it. It’s how you find help and learn to live with or deal with or cope with or whatever. I’m still searching and looking for coping mechanisms. And yet, I’m a happy guy. I have a great family. A loving family. So I thank you for bringing it out in your videos and maybe helping those people who haven’t found a way to cope just yet. Lots of us out there that are willing to listen. Thank you.

[@jonm4989]

Thanks for a very enlightening video Nick. I know for myself how important it is to spend time outside in the fresh air each day and I too feel dragged down by the shorter days and longer nights. Reading the comments below my heart goes out to everyone suffering with depression and anxiety. Alas it’s all too common these days and it’s so important to both look out both for yourself as well as your friends. Stay strong everyone and keep up the good work Nick.

[@martinoconnor6924]

Thanks for your input into this subject Nick, all the people who experience this disorder and depression as a result, will be glad of the sterling advise you've shared, keep up the good work you do thanks again!

[@jeffclarkofclarklesparkle3103]

I know all about depression, and SAD. Try simple yellow shaded glasses in the grey months. I don't know if or what it does, but sure makes things brighten up quite a lot for me. I've worked outside for multiple winters, enough to say this seriously can help

[@otterwerks]

Well said. You always sleep much better after being outside.

[@henrygunn7056]

Thank you. That bought a tear to my eye. Which I suspect means it hit home. Thanks.

[@leebell4113]

I have Suffered for many years with SAD I have come up with chapters & tools to help my self and many other men this time of year its something to prepare ourselves & improve our wellbeing through the darker months I suggest to people to try a light box beside your bed also even try to follow the 5Cs those can be found on the NHS websight . Would like to say thank you for releasing this video 💙 it's not addressed enough or some people who battle with SAD don't understand why it's happening and what tools are out there to help them manage it

[@darriendastar3941]

One of the reasons I love this channel is because there's so much concentrated wisdom and intelligence.

[@db8314]

My Dr diagnosed me with SAD several years ago. I told the doc, "I DO NOT HAVE SAD." She asked why do you think you don't you're depressed each year about the same time. I told the doc we needed to review my past. I have 3 friends murdered. I have lost 3 friends to suicide. A lot of other friends lost to accidents and disease. All these deaths have occurred from September to November. I'm sad in the fall because my life sucks and I have a lot of bad memories in autumn.

[@richardh1764]

Another point , I and many, many others work shift work, it absolutely minces your head.

[@stephenjackson3531]

Well said. Here, at 27 degrees South in Oz we don't have long periods of darkness. Problem we have is the Sun is up so bloody early. Around now it is broad daylight before 5 am. Oh to sleep in! I can sympathise with you in Britain. But we could do with just some of your soft greenery. Oz is a hard country. But still the best place to live.

[@alanevans4232]

Thanks Nick, that was excellent advice and, I hope people listen and take notice. I am very fortunate that I have never suffered rom SAD but, I was diagnosed with "clinical depression" about 15 to 18 years ago and offered "anti depresants". I shall not repeat what I said to the doctor about his tablets but, I did tell him I was going to take St Johns Wort. I Had had to go back every couple of weeks for a check up. The St Johns Wort took about six months to clear the depresion but, I have been O.K. ever since. I do now, and always have, spend a lot of time in the great outdoors.

[@brianmurray8247]

I couldn't agree more . Through experience there I have learnt there is nothing to beat it . Whether it is a few hours , or a couple of days or longer it is the best medicine - that and water . I really enjoy your videos , have learnt a lot , but this video I think is the most honest and important that have seen so far . When it comes to depression or any other health , the outdoors should in my opinion be a front line medicine . I know from first hand experience that best treatment I ever had was was from a nurse that encouraged to me to get back outdoors .

[@8thscout608]

Thank you Nick for sharing that part of yourself with us viewers

[@larrysheedy4293]

Great, great video. Love the comments n suggestions. Fwiw- I work with many battling MHI n a few things I really try to suggest: 1. keep up on are keeping up on their fluid levels. Sip often-it adds up n being well hydrated makes a positive difference. 2. The other is to try n keep a regular sleep schedule. Rest is Best. 3. Last is to try n eat every few hrs.

[@oaknhazel541]

Thank you...thats all i have to say, thank you. Edit: I work 7 evenings straight, then after a few days off, I work 7 nights.... lack of daylight is a reality, hence why we get out into the bush whenever possible.

[@kakarikiIck]

Great timing for the video when the clocks change. Thanks for the video.

[@BenSou66]

Really important topic. Great you brought it up. I hope many people will see this. Greetings from 🇸🇪

[@EdwinDueck]

I wish I had seen this video a few years ago. I went thru depression pretty bad, I found my way out in a local church, granted it may not be for every one. It worked for me. I'm going to move farther away from town, because I need some hardship in my life. Every thing is to easy and you fall into that rought very fast. When I went thru my depression I had stray cats, many days going out to feed them was the only thing that got me out of bed, I couldn't stand the fact of them going hungry. Sometimes I think they only got the food I fed them. Sometimes they would let me know they where at the door and they needed food. People that understand know what I mean, some think I'm just a silly old man. Its all good, I still love stray cats.

[@gschwendinger]

Absolutely Brilliant. A sincere thank you. Exactly what I needed to hear.

[@felipecastro5752]

Mr.Nick are master of preparedness. Good video. Lord bless you.

[@randomman4488]

Need more like this Mike Glover talks a lot about mindset and the likes

[@chrisdavies717]

Thank you Nick, great video! Just what I needed to hear as the weather begins to change here in Wales.

[@aynsleycooper365]

Bravo Nick. Be kind to yourself, and to others. J&A&B&T

[@thecornishwildcamper]

I have depression and anxiety which is a battle in its self I've also got osteoarthritis which makes spending alot of time doing what I enjoy difficult. I love the outdoors and here in Cornwall all the different weather makes for interesting times.

[@stretchwookie]

I know this is a relatively older video but I just have to say this. The end of this video hit me like a ton of bricks. We should be kinder to ourselves. If motivation comes from within, then so can demotivation. It's funny how it can seem so simple once you hear it, but can never arrive at that conclusion on your own. Thank you for the help

[@danmalone7819]

Great talk Nick. SAD is a very real condition.

[@MikeDownes]

Thanks Nick. Yesterday I added a comment linking back to the SAD page at the official NHS UK page, yjought might help others - comment seems to have disappeared; perhaps links are not allowed or perhaps Hidden Valley deleted it .. oh well ..

[@jelkel25]

Can't speak for anyone else obviously. For me, this is the most important time to push myself to get outdoors. If I acclimatize to the cooler weather, mud and rain now I'm used to it as the weather worsens, if I hide away from it now it's tougher and tougher to get out there and the fitness goes down hill.

[@marklawrence7791]

Well done Nick. Very informative video that will benefit many people.

[@vikingbushcraft1911]

Great vid 👍 Having a mutt definitely helps 🦮 - you’ve got no choice but to get out!

[@MikeWood]

Timely reminder video. Especially as the clocks will change in North America soon. Be kind to yourself too, Nick.

[@juliemarriott7395]

Thanks for this Nick, I have shared your 'wise words' with my online Community. Jx

[@OneOfThePauls]

So much good information in this video, I really hope people hear something that helps them, don't be alone!