Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a disorder caused by a specific chemical change in the brain from shorter days and less daylight, usually happening around fall or winter. This can be treated with antidepressants or light therapy.
Symptoms of seasonal depression include: feeling listless, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, having low energy, sleeping too much, carbohydrate cravings, overeating, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, feeling hopeless or guilty, and having suicidal thoughts.
These symptoms can change depending on the weather. Winter SAD usually includes: Oversleeping, appetite changes, weight gain, and tiredness. While spring usually includes: Insomnia, poor appetite, weight loss, agitation or anxiety, and irritability.
A survey about seasonal depression was recently sent to the media staff, and 60 students responded. The first question asked if they had ever had seasonal depression, and 43.3% said yes, while 31.7% said no. The next question asked if they felt they could identify signs of seasonal depression in themselves or others. 46.7% said they believed they could, and 35% said maybe. Only 18.3% said no.
Sometimes, people do not think to seek help or medication for seasonal depression. Students were asked what they would do to help themselves deal with this. Many students said being productive and keeping themselves busy helped them the most with things like work and hobbies. Many other students said getting good sleep and exercise was the way to go.
Lastly, when students were asked what advice they would give to someone struggling with seasonal depression, many students said to surround themselves with their people and not isolate themselves. Many other students said to reflect on why they feel this way.
Professionals from the Mayo Clinic state that you should consider things like light therapy, psychotherapy, or medication. But if you have any bipolar disorder, you should let your provider know beforehand. They also state that self-care is very important even if you are being treated. Things like: Making your environment sunnier and brighter, going outside, exercising regularly, and normalizing sleep patterns. The Mayo Clinic further says to make sure to stick with your treatment plan, practice stress management, socialize, and maybe even take a trip.