Getting through Seasonal Depression

The days are shorter, the nights are longer, and the air is colder. Luckily for most of winter we were home and with our families, but we did have to go through, at least a month of the dreary cold season while in school, and if you have seasonal depression, that short time probably seemed like a year. It did not help that finals came at that time.

I am proof that you can get through this. Once winter hits, I lose a lot of motivation. I hide in my room a lot more often and my overwhelming need to be alone is increased. However, throughout my experience, I have found ways to cope with this seasonal depression.

Cozy Up

There is nothing better than a cup of joe or hot chocolate on a cold day as I curl up in my blankets to prepare myself to study. The cold can feel isolating, but once you cuddle up and play the sounds of piano or a crackling fireplace, your heart warms inside and this can make it easier to do what it is you have to do.

Try to Go Out

Whether its ice skating or going out to coffee or a movie, try to go out still. The cold shouldn’t stop you from doing the weekly things you did when it was warm out, you just might be doing more indoors than outdoors. This can brighten your mood and get you active

Talk it Out

This is depression after all, and as much as we just want to be alone during the cold season, sometimes we just need to talk it out. You can talk with a friend or a professional. Either way, it is sure to make you feel better when you let all of those pent up feelings out to a friend who is there to listen.

Stay Active

One of the biggest reasons we fall into a slump during the winter is that we aren’t moving as much. Start attending Zumba, do some Yoga, or visit the gym. Find something that will keep you moving during this time of solace. You’ll get your blood pumping and have something to look forward to to get you out of the house.

Remember that it is perfectly normal to have seasonal depression. A lot of people do, they just don’t like to talk about it. I hope this advice helps you for the colder weather and finds you in happiness for the days to come.

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About the Author:

Elizabeth B.
Class of 2018
Major: Communication
Minor: Art
Blog Theme: Homebody for Everybody