Combatting Seasonal Depression

Most of us, some more than others, are affected by changes in the weather. Especially for those of us who aren’t used to East Coast winters, the cold and the lack of sunlight can be really detrimental to our health and wellbeing. As someone who grew up in San Francisco where the temperatures never get lower than 50 degrees, delving straight into the brutal Worcester winters was a huge shock for me. These are some tips that I have picked up on over the past couple years to help boost my mood when it’s in the negatives.

• Vitamin D: Winter = less sunlight = less vitamin D. I make a point to take this in a pill form, and take 1 every morning with the rest of my vitamins. Although it could easily be a placebo effect, these pills have been known to boost your mood, fight depression, and make your skin glow from the inside out. 
• A happy light: Many countries in northern Europe and Scandinavia frequently use these lights because of the limited amount of sunlight they get in the winter. They’re often used to treat SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), but can be used by pretty much anyone who gets the winter blues. These bright, sun-mimicking lights are known for lessening the symptoms of depression, regulating serotonin production, and boosting your mood.
• A balanced diet: The foods we eat 100% affect the way that we feel. Eating greasy junk food will undoubtedly leave you feeling lethargic, and possibly even guilt-ridden for feeding your body such unhealthy things. In the winter I try to eat as many vegetables and fruits as I can. Invest in a smoothie maker that you can use to get your daily dose of vitamins. It can also double as a blender to make your own soup. If you live on campus and are on a meal plan, try to make healthier choices in the caf and bistro. Avoid salty, greasy foods and opt for more fibrous and nutritional foods like filling salads, oatmeal, grilled chicken, etc.
• Exercise: Exercise is an immediate mood-booster. Although it’s hard to muster up the energy to hit the gym before class, once you get into a good routine of exercising every day you will feel a whole lot better. Yoga and meditation are also very effective in reducing stress and boosting your mood. Clark offers yoga classes every week so take advantage of them!
• Counselors: I’m not a trained professional, so although these tips might be helpful, they are definitely not foolproof. If you’re struggling with seasonal depression, or depression in general, talk to a trained therapist or seek help from Clark’s own Center for Counseling and Personal Growth. 

• depression
• sad
• Seasonal Depression