Are You SAD? Here's How To Shake The Montana Winter Blues

Winter in Montana is a long one, and it is a fact that it can get you down in the feels. The proper term for this is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

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What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

According to the National Institue of Mental Health, getting the blues when the seasons change is rather common. It is estimated that millions of Americans experience SAD, and many have no idea that is the cause.

" Many people feel "down" or have the "winter blues" when the days get shorter in the fall and winter and feel better in the spring when longer daylight hours return. Sometimes, these mood changes are more serious and can affect how a person feels, thinks, and behaves." - NIMH

What Do People Do In Montana To Beat The 'Winter Blues'?

We asked our listeners what they enjoy doing during the cold, dark winter months. Many of you provided great answers that we believe are worth sharing to help others!

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Get Your Groove On

Listening to music—whether at home, at a live venue, or playing an instrument—is a surefire way to shake off the blues. Studies show that music increases dopamine levels in the brain, boosting mood and reducing stress. So crank up your favorite playlist, sing along in the car, or even dust off that old guitar.

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Put Your Coat On and Head Outside

Winter in Montana isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you can brave the cold, the adventure is worth it! Our listeners love hitting the slopes, ripping snowmobiles, and even trying their luck with ice fishing. Now, sitting on a frozen lake might sound unbearable, but with a cozy ice fishing hut, it might just be the warmest winter activity of them all!

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Get Out of Town

One of the most popular (and honestly, funniest) suggestions from our listeners? Just leave! Escape the cold and head somewhere warm for a little break. While that’s not an option for everyone, if you can swing it, why not rethink your vacation timing? Instead of spending your travel budget on summer trips, save it for a winter getaway—you’ll appreciate that sunshine a whole lot more when it’s -10° back home!

There are plenty of ways to beat the winter blues in Montana—you just have to put in the effort. The key? Hobbies. A well-rounded life needs them, but in Montana, they’re essential. What else do you do to shake off the winter slump? Let us know HERE!

Four Hot Springs That Are Super Close to Bozeman

Looking for a great relaxing getaway? Here are a few hot springs to check out in the Bozeman area.

Gallery Credit: Jesse James

Here's 8 States That Have Longer And Harsher Winters Than Montana

Winter can be brutal here in Montana with lots of wind, snow, and temperatures well below zero. In fact, that alone should be a word of warning for those thinking of moving here from warmer climates.

A lot goes into being prepared to live in a state with rough winters and if you've never done it before, you certainly need to make sure that you are prepared. You need to make sure you have the right tires, vehicle, and winter clothing. Plus, I would highly suggest you learn how to drive in winter conditions before moving to a state that celebrates winter 6 months out of the year.

And while winters can be very rough here in Montana, we don't even crack the Top 5 for States With The Most Brutal Winters.

Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf

The Best Cures For A Montana-Sized Hangover

Montanans are known for a few things. Being kind, being helpful, being self-resilient, and being down for a good time. Here in Big Sky Country, we love to celebrate and there's a pretty good chance that those celebrations include adult beverages. Whether you're a fan of beer, wine, or spirits, there are lots of options in The Treasure State, and for those who like to partake, we've got some hangover cures for those who might have partook a little too much.

Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf