As the weather gets colder, more and more people are starting to feel the blues.

Less commonly, some people experience seasonal depression in the late spring.

Gallagher’s approach has its roots in behavioral activation, a technique used in cognitive behavioral therapy.

Young woman feeling said while watching the rain

This method helps reinforce healthy behaviors by changing how we interact with our environment.

Behavioral activation could help you identify these triggers through journaling and other techniques.

For starters, make a list of activities you feel good about, suggests theUniversity of Michigan.

Woman sitting in bed, struggling with seasonal depression

Next, create another column and write down the activities that negatively impact your mood.

Think about your passions, values, goals, and the causes you support.

Behavioral activation is more complex than that, but you get the point.

Woman playing with her dogs in the snow

If you’re happiest around animals, consider volunteering at a pet shelter.

Alternatively, sign up for horseback riding classes, adopt a pet, or visit an animal sanctuary.

Physical activity builds mental resilience and wards off stress while boosting your energy levels.