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How to Deal with Seasonal Depression

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at CWU chapter.

Do you ever feel like you have a harder time getting up for a class in the morning or have no motivation to go out and do things with your friends during the dreary months of December and January? You are not crazy, you probably are experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. SAD or winter depression is associated with most mental illnesses that worsen symptoms during these months, but it can affect everyone.  If you find yourself feeling a little down, here is a list to help pick up your mood!

Bright Colors

The fall and winter time is filled with dark colors and the colors you wear and are surrounded by can actually have an effect on your overall mood.  So instead of wearing your black on black outfit try to incorporate some happy colors into your wardrobe this upcoming season.  It can be simple things like finding a cozy pink sweater or changing your nail polish from maroon to a bright yellow, red or teal so every time you look down you get a little happy reminder!

Himalayan Salt Lamps

Not only are these super aesthetically pleasing, but they actually have some crazy benefits! A few of these benefits of salt lamps are that they are said to purify air and increase energy levels. There are also claims that it can also increase your sleeping and reduce stress. Getting exposure to sunlight can also boost your mood, so it is important to make sure that you get outside and soak up some sun even during the chilly months. 

Keep a routine

When you start to feel down it’s hard to keep up with your regular daily routine, and during this time it’s even more important to stick to it so you don’t fall into a rut.  It may become difficult to stay motivated find some friends who will keep you accountable! It is also important to continue to take care of yourself during this time.  Also, keeping up with a healthy diet will help you feel better or try picking up other activities such as yoga to keep a positive mind!

 

Before you know it, it will be springtime and the sunshine will be shining again, but don’t let these next few months bring you down! 

Her Campus CWU President, Editor-in-chief, and Writer Senior at Central Washington University Major: Social Services Minor: Communications