Q. How do I beat this winter depression?

Winter depression, or seasonal affective disorder, affects about 10 million people every year—yet it’s something we rarely talk about. This season is a good time to pause and check in on ourselves and each other. Advice columnist Grace dives into this topic this week.

Here’s what else we’re covering today:

📸 Protestors line up in Merrimack to speak out against a rumored ICE detention center

📢 Question of the week: What are your thoughts on Trump’s invasion of Venezuela?

❓ “How do I beat this winter depression?” Grace tackles the question

P.S. New year, new inbox energy. Forward this newsletter to a friend who likes staying informed—no resolutions required.

(Colin Booth/Granite Post)

My colleague Colin Booth attended a protest in Merrimack on Thursday, Jan. 8, where hundreds of Granite Staters gathered to oppose the rumored construction of a new ICE detention center.

Got a picture to share? Hit the button below, and we’ll feature it in this newsletter.

👉 NH reopens emergency drought assistance for private wells

“The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has reopened its Emergency Drought Assistance program. It may cover up to 100% of eligible costs to restore drinking water, including repairing, rehabilitating, or even replacing wells.” — WCAX

👉 NH House OKs pot legalization on first day of session

“The NH House began its yearly session Wednesday, and one of its first votes showed strong bipartisan support for a measure to legalize marijuana for recreational use by adults.” — Business NH Magazine

👉 Service Dogs NH gets $41K boost from charitable gaming

“Service Dogs NH received $41,509.86 in charitable gaming proceeds following its run at Revo Casino in Dover.” — Foster’s Daily Democrat

NH Rep. Maggie Goodlander recently called out President Donald Trump for turning his back on the American economy by shifting focus to Venezuela.

So this week’s question is…

What are your thoughts on the president taking control of Venezuela? 

Here’s what you’re saying…

“A military strike on a foreign country without congressional approval is plainly illegal. However, this won’t be the straw that broke the camel’s back regarding this administration’s lawlessness; instead it’s a straw thrown on the flattened corpse of a camel that’s been run over hundreds of times. We’re in deep, deep trouble, kids.” — Bob Weiner

“Illegal power grab for oil money, which I’m sure he will profit from personally.” — Nancy Fiske

Welcome to our weekly advice column, courtesy of Grace: She’s the big sister who shares her own mistakes so you can avoid making them, the coworker who builds you up to ask for the raise you deserve, and the friend who is always happy to listen.

We all need someone like Grace in our corner. Submit your own questions here.

Dear Grace,

I get depressed during the winter months. How can I motivate myself to stay more positive and upbeat?

— Nervous That It Will Get Bad Soon in Two Rivers

Dear Nervous,

For some folks, the shorter days and colder weather are a welcome opportunity to cook soup, cuddle up with a good book, or break out a new knitting project. But for some folks, winter can bring holiday grief, or even Seasonal Affective Disorder (or S.A.D.). I’m not a doctor, but if you get depression during the winter months, you should talk to a mental health professional about Seasonal Affective Disorder. When there’s less daylight, our body chemistry changes too. If you’re struggling with something more serious than the winter blues, you’re not alone. 

Let’s talk about how to get you some mental health support and bring more joy into this season…

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Katy Savage with stories from Galvanize Together. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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