Ah, winter in Vancouver. The rain doesn’t stop, the skies are perpetually gray, and let’s not even get started on the daylight hours—or lack thereof. As winter sets in across British Columbia, many Vancouverites face the challenge of shorter days and colder weather. The winter blues in Vancouver can be tough, with Seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), affecting many during these darker months, making it crucial to find ways to maintain mental wellness.
When the seasonal blues hit hard, some folks escape to sunnier climates, while others—well, they lace up their skates. Yes, you read that right: in Vancouver, hockey isn’t just a sport, it’s a survival tactic. For many Vancouverites, the rink is where they fight off seasonal depression, one slapshot at a time. Tackling the winter blues in Vancouver requires finding activities that lift your spirits.
Canadian winters can be an especially difficult experience for newcomers, who are already more vulnerable to depression and anxiety (New Canadian Media, 2022)
Why Hockey? Because What Else Are We Going to Do?
Meet Ryan, a seasoned hockey coach who spent years in Northern BC, where harsh winter conditions took a toll on his mental health. Living with just six hours of daylight, he quickly realized how the lack of sunlight affected his mood and energy levels.
Ryan, however, found solace in his favorite sport. Despite the long winter, the excitement of hockey season gave him something to look forward to. The fast-paced games and camaraderie on the ice lifted his spirits, proving that staying active during winter is crucial.
The Ice Rink: Vancouver’s Winter Gathering Spot
In Vancouver, when the skies are grey for 23 out of 24 hours, the hockey rink becomes the place to be. It’s not just about the sport; it’s about community bonding. There’s something comforting about knowing that, as the rain pours down and the wind howls outside, inside the rink you’ve got your fellow players and die-hard fans cheering on every goal, pass, and (let’s be real) fight. This sense of community helps alleviate the winter blues in Vancouver.
The hockey season unfolds during the darkest months, with matches and practices creating structure in the midst of winter chaos. It’s the perfect distraction: instead of spiraling into seasonal depression, Vancouverites immerse themselves in team rivalries, heated games, and, of course, post-game beers. Participating in local hockey is a great way to combat winter blues in Vancouver.
Forget the Vitamin D, Get a Power Play
While some Vancouverites are hopping on planes to Mexico to soak up the sun, many stick to what they know best—hockey. Sure, flying south for a quick dose of Vitamin D might do wonders for your tan, but can it match the adrenaline of a good power play? Probably not. Ryan, however, manages to do both.
For those who can’t jet off, the Vancouver hockey scene offers a near-perfect alternative to sunshine: excitement, community, and a break from thinking about how depressing the weather can be. As an alternative, use light therapy lamps! They are popular to mimic natural sunlight and boost mood. These methods are effective ways to manage winter blues in Vancouver.
Simple Self-Care Tips for Winter Wellness
Beyond physical activity and chasing the sun, small daily habits can make a big difference during the winter. Here are a few tips for keeping your mental health in check:
- Exercise regularly: Find a hobby you enjoy, going to hot yoga, or a gym class, a walk in the park, or a new sport.
- Eat nourishing foods: A balanced diet is essential to maintaining energy and mood.
- Prioritize sleep: Winter months can throw off sleep patterns, so aim for regular, restful sleep.
- Stay connected: Keep in touch with friends and family to ward off feelings of loneliness. I once joined a poetry and journaling club that made the winter months feel so cozy and full of company thanks to our weekly meetings.
Conclusion: Take Winter Head-On
Hockey, in this case, is the city’s unofficial antidote to winter blues—providing that much-needed emotional boost to get through the long, dreary months. So, what’s the takeaway? If you’re battling seasonal depression in Vancouver, skip the light therapy and grab a hockey stick. Whether you’re watching from the bleachers or hitting the ice yourself, it’s all about immersing yourself in the action. Hockey might not cure SAD, but it sure makes winter feel a lot more bearable in Vancouver.
But hey, until that day comes, Vancouverites will keep skating through the darkness—one game at a time.
Winter doesn’t have to be a season of struggle. By staying active, getting enough sunlight, and practicing regular self-care, you can keep your mental health in check. Whether it’s finding joy in small moments, embracing your favorite activities, or booking a sunny escape, there’s no shortage of ways to thrive during winter. Managing winter blues in Vancouver is all about finding what works for you.
And if you’re in need of some fresh air, a short walk in one of Vancouver’s parks could make all the difference. Check out our Top 5 Vancouver Parks for a helpful resource that’ll get you outside and moving this winter!
