As Halloween has come and gone and the sun starts to set earlier, we are officially deep into fall. While fall is arguably the prettiest season, it also means that seasonal depression comes into play for many people.
Seasonal depression is challenging to deal with because you know that it’s weather-induced but you feel tired and unmotivated all of the time, making it more challenging to get things done.
Last fall and winter, I went through my worst round of seasonal depression ever. When spring came and I finally felt better, I swore that next fall and winter I wasn’t going to let seasonal depression get the best of me.
I decided then and there to make a plan in order to combat my seasonal depression. After some research and talking to friends, this is what I have come up with.
GO TO THE GYM
Exercise is good at increasing production of endorphins, which make you happy. By going to the gym every day (or in my case almost every day), you will feel happier because you are releasing endorphins and feel more accomplished.
The reason why I said almost every day for myself is that I know that I am not going to go to the gym every day, I simply do not have the time. But I am holding myself to going at least three times a week. I know that it will be difficult at first to spend more time in the gym but I am committed to my mental health so if that’s what it takes, then I’ll do it.
GO IN THE SUN OR GET A SUNLAMP
I’m going to admit this one will be challenging considering that it is very cold during the winter and even when the sun is out, it still can be unbearable to be outside.
My motto this winter is if the sun is out, I am out meaning that if I see the sun my aim is to spend at least 30 minutes outside when it is sunny. Whether it’s bundling up and walking to class instead of taking the bus to class or taking a 30-minute walk outside, my goal is to spend at least 30-minutes a day outside in the sun.
When it is not sunny, I plan on investing in a sunlamp so that way I can at least feel like there is sun outside even on the gloomiest of days.
spend time with friends
I would consider myself an extroverted person however when the weather gets colder, I find myself retreating from going out and seeing my friends. This isn’t healthy for me and so I am determined to spend more time with my friends as it gets colder even if I am dreading leaving my cozy apartment.
Obviously, this advice varies based on whether you are introverted or extroverted but if you are more extroverted, don’t neglect to see your friends because you don’t think you have the energy. Social interaction is essential and while you may feel like it will drain you during the winter, make an attempt to see friends at least twice a week. Trust me, it will be worth it.
With these tips, I plan on fighting back against my seasonal depression. While the sun may be setting earlier, I’m not going to let it control my life.
To getting through seasonal depression, collegiettes!