Seasonal Depression
Written by: Ace Fisher Illustration by: Ace Fisher
Seasonal depression, medically referred to as Winter Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is something that affects many people across the globe. You may not even realize you’re being affected, but the symptoms are greatly felt. One in three students in high school experience S.A.D. at some point in their academic career according to the CDC, and it must be treated.
Someone who experiences seasonal depression usually has standard depression symptoms during seasons of reduced sunlight and lack of temperate weather, such as autumn and winter. Those who have depression may feel elevated symptoms during these times. If you experience feeling sad or hopeless, appetite and/or weight changes, low self-esteem, low energy, or irregular sleep patterns, you may be suffering from S.A.D.
If left completely untreated, these feelings can devolve into major depressive disorders, so it is important to be self-aware and be able to identify the signs of seasonal depression. The most effective way of tackling S.A.D. is by speaking to a doctor, therapist, or other mental health professional who can consult with you on the potential options for treatment. Light therapy, a form of therapy where one is exposed to a light source which usually provides vitamin C, can be an effective tool in fighting not only seasonal depression, but all forms of depression. Consult with your healthcare professional to formulate a plan that works for you, because everyone is different.
Spending more time with friends and family can also help improve your mood. During fall and winter, poor weather conditions usually make this more difficult, but making a conscious effort to stay connected with those you care about can help maintain a good mood.
Harvard medical research says physical activity is a great way to decrease the effects of depression due to the endorphins, or chemicals in your brain, that are released when exercising. Consistency is required, however, to receive the best results.
Another option in the fight against seasonal depression is journaling. Writing your feelings down on something tangible can help you sort through the emotions you’re feeling and make sense of them. An important step in recovery is identifying why you feel a certain way and journaling is a fantastic place to start.
The importance of treating S.A.D., no matter the severity nor duration, cannot be stressed enough. Life is difficult enough without adding symptoms of depression on top of it. If you or someone you know is suffering from seasonal depression, talk with them. Sometimes all it takes is a friend to start the journey to recovery and healing.
