You’ve probably heard about this disorder before because of how common it is within students and adults, or because of the strongly used sarcasm people use due to the winter season. I’m here to tell you that seasonal depression isn’t something that should be used as a joke, or as a witty remark when you’ve had a bad day, or it just happens to be cold outside. SAD is actually very serious for a lot of people.
“Seasonal depression is very serious because even though it’s just “seasonal”, a lot of people have suicidal thoughts, and will not seek for help because not many people take it seriously enough,” said an anonymous junior.
I talked to many students about seasonal depression. Senior Jake Broman had a lot to say about it.
He has struggled with seasonal depression since he was just 13 years old.
He said, “I sleep a lot more than usual, have a huge lack of motivation in school, and I don’t have my usual positive attitude either. I obsess over the thought of it becoming spring. My mind is constantly in a different place. I lack just being in the moment.”
Roughly 6% of Americans suffer from SAD. This is a highly common issue that many people don’t know how to deal with. Although it seems impossible to get out of your cozy bed in the morning, I do have some tips that may help you cope a little more in these frigid winter months.
It’s very important to get as much sunlight as you can during the winter. By doing this, try to find a time each day to get outside,even if it’s just for a few minutes to just take your dog out. If it’s absolutely freezing, then sit by windows while you’re inside so that you can feel the sun beaming down on you.
It’s also important to stay active. A lot of people who struggle with SAD decide to just lay around all day, because it’s not warm enough out to enjoy their day. But, what really helps is getting out and exercising! Join a gym, or just workout at home. It’s better than just sitting around feeling sad. Try to have a well-balanced diet as well. This way, you can set a goal for yourself, and have something to work towards during the dreary months. Just a few more weeks, and it’ll be time for that spring break bod!
“One thing that helped me was finding a hobby that I really enjoy in the winter so I can live in the moment and look forward to something. Things that I enjoy in the winter are lifting, skiing, and hockey. Oh, and it never hurts to look back at pictures from the memories of summer,” said Broman.
An anonymous sophomore said, “My tip to all who are going through seasonal depression, is to not keep yourself in the situation you are in. Whether it is external or internal. Switch up your routine and don’t dwell on self pity!”
To anyone with SAD, it’s important to know that you will get through it. Try and distract yourself during these months. You can always contact me as well if you would like to talk. A therapist could be very beneficial as well!
Broman said, “If it’s possible, try as hard as you can to have a weekend away or go to a state to stay warm that doesn’t look like trash. When in doubt, find good memes.”
