By Liz Mantush ’25
Winter is a difficult time for everyone. Temperatures are below freezing, the sun sets at 4:30, and everything seems to move so much slower. In some cases the change in seasons can lead to SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. Johns Hopkins Medicine describes SAD as a type of depression that is caused by shorter days and less daylight.
As students, the winter can feel never-ending. The stretch between Christmas and Spring Break feels like it is crawling by and it can be hard to keep ourselves motivated.
One of the main causes for SAD, also known as Seasonal Depression is a decrease in serotonin production in the body. Serotonin is a chemical produced in the body that affects mood and sleep- a lack of it can cause both anxiety and depression. One of the main boosters of serotonin production is sunlight, natural vitamin D is absorbed in the skin when exposed to sunlight which leads to a higher production of the chemical in your body.
Do you ever wonder why you feel so much happier in the summer? You’re spending your days being consistently exposed to the sun, which is why the winter seems so much harder. Despite all of this, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms of seasonal depression.
Although it’s cold, one of the easiest and most effective ways to increase serotonin levels is spending time outside. Going on a walk, even if it’s for five minutes, increases not only serotonin but also endorphins in your body, which are clinically proven to make you feel happier. If spending time outside isn’t your vibe, sunlight lamps are a very effective way to boost serotonin levels in your body.
One of the most overwhelming symptoms of seasonal depression is self isolation. It’s so easy to get caught up in your own head when there isn’t much else to do. The truth is, sometimes staying home and taking a nap sounds more appealing than doing absolutely ANYTHING else, but falling back on your support systems is an amazing way to keep yourself above water in these hard months.
Almost everyone is feeling the same way, and by reaching out to people who care about you connects you with something bigger than yourself. By being with people you love like family and friends, you are given an outlet to get out of your own head. Laughing has actually been proven to boost endorphin levels, the same chemicals that are released during exercise which can clinically boost your mood. Having people who can lift you up during dark times will make you feel more fulfilled in the end, even if it’s hard to reach out.
If you’re feeling sluggish, unmotivated and sad during this time, you are not alone. It may feel like there’s no other option but to wait it out, but actively being aware of ways to help yourself can make the winter feel much less hopeless and grim.
