My 3 tips on how to cope with seasonal affective depression.
The days are getting shorter while the nights are getting longer. For some people, this just means they need to switch their wardrobe to fall/winter, but for others, it means they need to try and combat seasonal affective depression (SAD). Here are some tips that may just give you that little boost in mood that you may need this time of year.
1. Try not to isolate yourself.
It may be hard to leave your house/apartment/dorm, but it will help. This doesn’t mean you have to go and hang out with a big group of friends every moment of every day. Just being outside of your room for part of the day will help, especially when it is sunny out. Being surrounded by people while everyone does their own thing is beneficial. An easy way to do this is to do schoolwork in a study lounge or library, or even going and sitting outside on a sunny day.
2. Exercise.
Exercising releases endorphins which help boost your mood. Regular exercise also helps improve your physical health, not just mental. Even if it is just doing a few jumping jacks or going on YouTube and finding a ten minute dance workout, anything is better than nothing. Outside activities are better against SAD, but even inside will help get those endorphins flowing.
3. Make time for yourself.
No matter what year of school you are in, this season is when things get intense with midterms, projects and motivation. If you are overwhelmed by the amount of work and studying you have, your SAD will overwhelm you even more. Taking time to do anything you love, whether it’s catching up on your favorite show, binging a new show, writing in a journal or meditating will help relax your mind. Try and make one night a week a night where you just relax. No work, no worrying, nothing, just relaxation.
This season can be tough, make sure you take care of yourself and check in on your friends. Everyone deserves to have happiness every season.