Fluctuating weather messes with her mental health
Dear Lisi: I can’t take this weather fluctuation. I know there’s nothing anyone can do about it, but it’s screwing up my equilibrium and messing with my mental health. I enjoy all four seasons, which is why I live in a city known for its distinctive seasonal weather.
I love fall because I love “sweater weather”: that time of year when you’re not cold, but want to be warm, so you layer up with a cosy sweater. I love winter because I love snow, ice skating, making snowmen and hiking in the woods. I love spring because I love the smell of the earth waking up, the flowers popping out of the ground and the sunshine. And finally, I love summer because I love the heat, sitting outdoors on patios and wearing sandals.
It’s the beginning of March and in the past three days, the temperature has fluctuated more than 20 degrees in either direction. I don’t know whether I’m coming or going. I’m not feeling in control and I need more balance. What do I do?
Seasonal Sally Learn what can help you feel calm, whether that’s sleeping until your body clock wakes you; taking long lunch breaks; going for walks in the woods; engaging in exercise and sports; using light therapy; self-care, such as massage; or even specific medications. If your feelings can’t be managed on your own, seek professional help.
Reader’s Commentary Regarding the question from the sister about her brother’s girlfriend who’s not a nice person (Jan. 9):
“I appreciated reading how the father stepped in after a fight between the brother and girlfriend, telling them to leave, and explaining to the girlfriend that when she is in their home she must show every member of the family respect.
“My son’s girlfriend, now his wife, has always been disrespectful to us, her own parents and her husband (our son).
“We were surprised how rude she was to her dad on the phone one evening while she was in our home, early in their relationship.
“She is also rude to them in person. They seem to be afraid of her and never say anything.
My son never speaks back to her but, instead, defends her and gets upset if anyone says anything about it. And if you do say something to her, she flies off in a rage, slams doors and pouts.
“Now they have two children whom my husband and I just adore. We feel threatened that we will be kept from the boys if we say anything to her about her behaviour. It’s like blackmail.
“One Christmas they brought their new puppy with them and, while she ignored the pup, it peed all over my new carpet. I was very upset. She never apologized and after they left, texted me to say they didn’t have a good time, and I ruined her Christmas because I was grumpy.
This behaviour goes on and on and frustrates me and my husband. We put up with her just so we can see the grandchildren, but we don’t enjoy her company.
I wish I would have said something at the beginning of their relationship, like the father in the letter, especially now that there are grandchildren to consider.