Winter blues, winter depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): regardless of what you call it, it’s a very real thing that can hit especially hard in New England where winters are long and brutal. SAD has been linked to a shortening of daylight hours and sunlight in the winter. As we change the clocks we must adjust to a new normal in terms of sleeping patterns, daylight and time spent outside. Because of these changes, we can be left feeling out of place, exhausted, irritable and even emotionless. No matter how hard the winter blues are hitting you, always remember that you are not alone. Here’s five things you can do to lift your spirits and beat SAD:
1. Eat healthy and get active!
Exercising releases endorphins and eating healthy gives your more energy throughout the day. Taking care of your body and feeling good about yourself will in turn boost your mood and put you in a better mental state. Also, getting on a regular schedule with workouts and planning your meals can make you feel like you have more control and a better grasp on your life.
2. Do a light treatment.
Whether it be spending more time outdoors through winter sports or getting light therapy, having sunlight in your life can really boost your mood and be effective in lessening the impacts of seasonal depression. Get a little vitamin D in your life to improve bodily functions and increase your energy levels. Himalayan salt lamps have also been thought to help SAD and provide positive energy.
3. Stay warm!
Being exposed to cold temperatures can compromise your immune system and make you downright miserable. Make sure to layer up while walking to class, crank up the heat (especially if you live in the Ave), and drink lots of hot chocolate, teas and coffee.
4. Spend time with friends, family and loved ones.
One of the worst parts of SAD and winter blues is the lonely feeling of isolation. Surrounding yourself with the people you love most can give you a sense of self and happiness. If you reach out for help, they can give you the strength to help yourself and boost your moral.
5. Reach out to campus resources or call centers.
There are many resources on and off campus that care about you and your well-being; you are not alone in this and you are important.
– Counseling Center: 5721 Cutler Health Center, Room 125 Orono, Maine 04469 Tel: 207-581-1392
Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm – 4:30pm
– The Mind Spa: Outreach Office at 120 Memorial Union, 1st floor by the ATM Tel: 207-581-4561
Hours: Monday through Friday from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
– Psychological Services Center: 330 Corbett Hall, Orono, ME 04469 Tel: 207-581-2034
– Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
– Crisis Text Line: text START to 741-741
Reach out, get help, and stay strong collegiettes.