Skip to Content

Exercise is one way to help battle seasonal depression, Colorado doctors advise

Shorter days and reduced sunlight in winter can trigger or worsen depression symptoms.

January 05, 2026
Jen Adams speaks about exercising during the holiday season.

Aurora, Colo. — Health experts say simple lifestyle steps can help, especially for people setting New Year’s fitness goals.

“About 25% of people experience at least some symptoms of [seasonal affective disorder],” Dr. Jennifer Harned Adams, a clinical psychologist with HCA HealthONE, said. “It also impacts about 85% of people who experience depression outside of a seasonal pattern and can look like worsening of symptoms during the colder winter months.”

Watch the Denver7 story

Learn more about the HCA HealthONE Mental Health and Wellness Center

Published:
January 05, 2026
Location:
Behavioral Health and WellnessCTR at TMCA, HCA HealthONE Aurora

Related Newsroom Articles

A lab for tomorrow
January 13, 2026
Cherry Creek schools taking action to meet future workforce needs.
A lab for tomorrow
January 13, 2026
Cherry Creek schools taking action to meet future workforce needs.
Winter heart health: Simple tips to start the new year
January 09, 2026
Heart health should always be top of mind, but especially so in colder months.
Expert offers advice to overcome post-holiday blues
January 08, 2026
For some, the dark days post-holidays can be a difficult time.