The leaves are changing, the air is slightly chillier, and the Town Center mall is already blaring classic holiday songs through their department stores. “All I Want for Christmas” is on constant replay on your roommate’s speaker, but all you want is a simple escape from these seasonal blues.
Diagnose & Self-Assess
Seasonal Depression, formally known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a form of depression commonly diagnosed among individuals during the fall and winter months. Less common during the summer, the National Institute of Mental Health describes symptoms ranging from mood changes, low self -esteem, and irritability to feelings of hopelessness. On top of that, the loss of a family member or a lack of supportive family during this time can make coping with SAD even more challenging.
Seeking Support Through Your Friends
Change can seem intimidating, but knowing how to decrease your likelihood of being affected by the seasonal shift can make the transitions smoother. Reaching out to your friends can be the first step to shake off uncomfortable emotions. Confide in your friends about the feelings you’ve been having and honor your emotions by giving them the attention they deserve. Plan a self-care day with your friends at your favorite restaurant or have an all-out party: just make sure to stay safe! Choose this time to surround yourself with positive energy and loving individuals. Kennesaw State also has professional services available through the counseling center to help, too.
Light Therapy & Vitamin D
Along with talking to your friends, professionals recommend light therapy as a way to improve your mood. Since winter and fall bring shorter days, less sunlight has proven to be a factor in affecting people’s behavior. Walk outside in the morning or have an afternoon study session on the green. Just like plants, the sun reminds us to soak up all the good energy and store some within ourselves for later. The NIH also encourages a healthy dose of vitamin D through a balanced diet. Foods such as tuna, salmon, and eggs can be infused into various dishes or served alone as a main meal.
Exercise
As tempting as it may be to sleep away the day in your dorm room or even skip class, exercise can play a key part in boosting your serotonin. Whether it’s yoga or a HITT routine, look for opportunities to get active and be in a new environment. Kennesaw has group fitness classes at different levels of intensity throughout the semester. Group classes are even a great way to meet people and form new friendships.
Showing up for Yourself
The most important thing to remember is that you are not as alone as you may feel. You must continue to seek the light even when it may be challenging to see it.
“Every day is a choice, so choose joy over sorrow,” says Monique Montgomery, a sophomore psychology major.
Making a habit of allowing yourself to confront how you feel is so important while in college. Along with the incorporation of exercise and reaching out to a strong support system, Montgomery believes that getting away from campus can be the very medicine some may need. Take a day trip if possible, or visit family members. Half the battle is getting up and declaring you want to be free from the grips of seasonal shifts. The second battle is acting on it. If you know a friend struggling during this time, check in on them, comfort them, and be a listening ear. The seasons may change, but you can be better equipped to handle what comes with it when you understand yourself and your triggers.