5 Books to Help Ease Depression During the Colder Winter Months

While Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a diagnosable disorder seen frequently during the winter, it isn’t uncommon for many of us to feel some form of sadness or melancholy during this time.  As someone living with depression, I find reading to be a particularly wonderful treat that often works like an antidepressant for me.  I believe in the healing power of literature as a Bibliotherapist, and I would love to share this passion with you.  Please enjoy my top five literary picks for helping you through the dismal winter months.

1) Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

This first pick is one of my absolute favorite books of all time. Why? Because it takes you on a glorious science fiction/fantasy adventure that is immersive and gets you out of your head for a while. If you are a fan of 80s pop culture and virtual reality, then this pick is for you!

2) Desperation by Stephen King

If you can’t shake the depression, then beat the heck out of it with this classic scary novel about a small town where things just aren’t quite right. Stephen King’s signature style slowly pulls you in until you completely forget where you are. The scares also help to wipe away your sad feelings and get your heart racing. If you are a fan of classic, slow burning horror – or would like to try something that will get you completely hooked – then you can’t miss this classic.

3) Everything All At Once by Bill Nye

Not feeling the fiction picks? No problem! Pick up this scholarly classic by the incomparable Bill Nye. As always, Bill Nye makes learning fun in this book that covers just about everything you need to know to stay forever curious and further explore what interests you. This book has helped me to get out of many a slump, and you are sure to devour it in one sitting! 

4) World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments by Aimee Nezhukumatathil

This gorgeous collection of nature essays is Barnes and Noble’s book of the year, and it is well deserved! Each of these essays brings the beauty and wonder of nature to you, while providing some beautiful insight into our everyday lives. This book is perfect during this time of year because it celebrates the natural world and may help you not feel so cooped up.

5) Soul Shifts: Transformative Wisdom for Creating a Life of Authentic Awakening, Emotional Freedom, and Practical Spirituality by Barbara De Angelis 

Barbara De Angelis is a spiritual leader whose gorgeous book was very life changing for me. In it, she helps you explore your spiritual side and face your emotions to live a more fulfilled life. If you are looking for a book that is enlightening and will help with your personal growth while also teaching  you to manage your emotions, then this book is perfect.  

Reading can be such a beautiful, natural antidepressant, and while just about any book may help you to ease your depression, I hope that you find joy in one of my suggestions. If you feel up to it, why not try all five? They might help you get through this winter, and your mental health will thank you for it.