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WHAT IS CABIN FEVER AND HOW TO CONQUER IT

The winter months are time for celebration, but it is also one of the most common times for people to experience cabin fever.

This is due to the changes in weather, and people huddling inside to remain warm.

WHAT IS CABIN FEVER?

Cabin fever is a term for the symptoms people experience when isolated for long periods of time, either in their home or another building.

Some people believe that cabin fever is a type of syndrome while others think it is linked to disorders like claustrophobia or seasonal affective disorder.

SYMPTOMS OF CABIN FEVER

While not every single person suffering from cabin fever will display the same symptoms, many people have expressed feelings of intense restlessness and irritability.

Other commonly experienced symptoms are as follows:

  • Depression or sadness
  • Restlessness – especially in children!
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Lethargy
  • Decrease in patience
  • Food cravings
  • Difficulty waking in the morning
  • Social isolation
  • A large decrease in motivation
  • Frequent need for naps
  • Weight fluctuations
  • Inability to cope with stress
  • Hopelessness

While these symptoms may indicate a large range of other disorders, only a trained professional can provide an accurate diagnosis.

It is also important to note that not everyone who has trouble with being stuck at home all winter has cabin fever.

In fact, it is only when someone experiences several of these symptoms that a diagnosis is provided.

HOW TO CONQUER CABIN FEVER

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When experiencing symptoms of cabin fever, it is important to find ways to combat them.

Just make sure that you speak to a health care professional if these symptoms become overwhelming.

  • Read a good book.
  • Take up a new hobby.
  • Start scrapbooking.
  • Try a new recipe.
  • Do a puzzle.
  • Play board games.
  • Go for a walk.
  • Go to the gym.
  • Rearrange your home.
  • Take on a new home improvement project.
  • Plan your summer vacations.
  • If it’s not too cold make a snowman.
  • Try sledding or snowshoeing.
  • Volunteer at a local shelter.
  • Plan a staycation.
  • Relax and snuggle on the couch with hot chocolate.
  • Have a spa day at home.
  • Keep yourself busy.
  • Redecorate a room in your house.
  • Have people over for coffee.
  • Host a dinner party.

There are many ways to combat cabin fever this winter.

Just make sure that you get creative and don’t allow it to overcome you.

If you are feeling as though the cabin fever is overtaking you and the symptoms are far too tough to navigate on your own, please make sure to consult a medical professional.

You may also like this post with GREAT WAYS TO EXERCISE IN THE WINTER:

 

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JoKing

Saturday 22nd of December 2018

I find a simple walk outdoors once or twice a week is helpful. Also a happy light.

Tammi L.

Saturday 22nd of December 2018

When we lived in Igloolik back in the early 80s they only had flights 2 times a week (weather permitting). By the time I'd been there a few months I started experiencing cabin fever and the whole idea that I was 'stuck' there really exasperated it! Sadly, what most people did back then to get over it was get together and drink... and drink... and drink. At least every weekend.

D.B.

Friday 21st of December 2018

These are really great tips for combating cabin fever. I usually read a book or play games to pass the time. I like the ideas of exercising and also redecorating a room.

Meredith

Friday 21st of December 2018

I worry about that each Christmas when we visit family. It is just so easy to stay put and on electronics...thanks for the ideas!

Tara Gauthier

Thursday 20th of December 2018

These are perfect tips to combat cabin fever especially since Christmas Break starts after tomorrow and it's easy to feel it during those two weeks.