The Link Between Cold Weather and Addiction
For many of us the thoughts of winter are often met with negative feelings and emotions. Waking up in the morning to the bitter cold wishing you can hang on to your covers for a little while longer, the realization that darkness will start setting around 5pm, the thickness of your clothes as you layer for those cold dreadful days and don’t get me started on the phenomenon that although your body feels like a human icicle you are somehow still able to sweat profusely. The natural and cultural changes that come with winter often occur simultaneously, making it challenging to tease apart the causes underlying these seasonal emotional swings. The disdain for winter can be a real challenge and there are a ton of research studies that prove that you’re not crazy for feeling down during the winter months. Although we are all battling winter in our own ways, there are people who have to fight just a little harder than some of us. Particularly those who are battling mental health and substance abuse.
Ever wonder why drug overdoses increase in the winter? A growing body of research in psychology and related fields suggest that cold weather brings about profound changes in how people think, feel and behave. Unfortunately, as the days grow shorter a large percentage of people will experience a form of depression known as seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. For many people, winter brings about feelings of loneliness and depression. More than ever, those suffering from addiction may feel the urge to self-medicate their negative feelings with drugs and alcohol. During this time of year, individuals may also struggle with boredom due to colder weather bringing on less activities, longer nights and less access to recovery resources.
Bayside Behavioral Health full scale outpatient treatment center offers care for those struggling with addiction in the wintertime. We are here to support clients, even during the coldest months of the year. We understand the importance of combating feelings of depression that can lead to furthering substance abuse. Contact us at 317-520-8300 or info@baysidebh.com today to learn about our services.
The Relationship Between Winter and Overdoses
It is a disheartening but real fact that drug overdoses tend to increase during the winter months. Not only does isolation and spending more days inside play a huge role in drug usage, but the pressures of the holiday season can trigger misuse. As well as, the pressures of family gatherings, financial stressors, and unrealistic expectations leading some individuals to seek solace in substance misuse.
The cold weather also has physiological effects on the body. For example, cold weather can affect the body’s metabolism, potentially altering how it processes certain substances. This can lead to an increased risk of overdose, particularly from individuals who are not aware of these changes. Furthermore, inclement weather can make it harder for those struggling to get the help that they need while increasing the access to obtaining drugs and alcohol.
Your journey to recovery is a personal one, and it’s important to have the support and resources necessary to navigate through any obstacle that may arise. If you find that your substance abuse escalates during the winter or if your use of substances is causing issues within your life, it’s time to consider professional help. Do not hesitate to contact Bayside Behavioral Health at 317-520-8300 or fill out our online form at www.baysidebh.com
