Seasonal depression occurs when the months get colder, and the days get dark faster. Women more than men seem to be affected by it. For some, it seems inevitable for their yearly gloom to come back.
Personally, I like the winter months. Obviously, that is not the case for everyone. So, I’d like to share some helpful tips. Some of these tips are things that I have heard other people do, and some are things that I think make the cold months so good for me.
The first thing that you can do is try to associate good feelings with winter. People usually think happy thoughts when the sun is shining. When it gets all cloudy, people tend to tie their moods to that. A simple thing that you can do is create activities that you could enjoy doing in the winter. Arrange some cozy events for yourself. Read a book, catch up on your favorite shows, or just make plans with your friends. This goes especially to the people who are from out of state. Our campus is near the city so there are lots of things to do and to see.
One of the main attributors to seasonal depression that I have heard is the fear of gaining weight. Since the weather is less ideal, this makes sense. So don’t worry, this just happens. One thing you can do to combat this is to start creating a routine early. This way you will have time to adjust to the sun going down. Generally, exercise can help get your mind off stressful thoughts. It can also help prevent you from doomscrolling all day.
Another thing that you can do is have more fun with your outfits. Cold weather is ideal for layering clothing. It’s important to feel good when you are out and about. So, if you get bored you can try and have some fun with your outfit. Add a scarf to your outfit. Maybe look into adding some hats or cute gloves. There is a plethora of outfit inspiration on Pinterest.
When you see snow in New York, that usually leads to maybe a day of aesthetic fluffy white snow which is followed by the creation of depressing brown slush. Traffic occurs, and the brown snow seems to just stare at you, mockingly. It makes commuting a nightmare whether that is by car or train. Please, in advance purchase some durable shoes. Better yet buy some boots. I do not want to walk into class to see someone wearing soggy crocs. That would make us both miserable. Save yourself from hyperthermia.
Remember that the cold season doesn’t last forever. You should try your best to feel good in the winter. Keep warm and maintain your rhythm. Do things that will make you feel happy and take advantage of the light during the time that it is out in the winter.