Late October to early November always seems to be a confusing time of year. It's the end of the spooky season, one’s excitement for Halloween is replaced with a renewed vigor for the holidays and a salvation for bigger pants and good food. But between all this holiday cheer is a strange emptiness that fills the times.
Seasonal depression, otherwise known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a mood disorder that comes around as a result of the seasons changing. Typically, it takes hold in late fall and can last through the winter. While there is no specific known cause for why it happens, there are several theories. According to John Hopkins Medical School, “it is thought that shorter days and less daylight may set off a chemical change in the brain leading to symptoms of depression.” More time in the dark means less Vitamin D, which means the less serotonin we produce, the harder it is to feel happy.
Living in Buffalo, especially where winter seems to last most of the year, SAD is an all too real occurrence. Knowing how to combat it and keep your head on straight makes all the difference. The first step is recognizing when you’re feeling it. SAD is characterized by a lack of energy, mood swings and sometimes changes in appetite. It presents similarly to other kinds of depression, but manifests during certain times of the year. When you start feeling this way, the first initiative is to take stock of your feelings and environment.
As yourself, how long have you been feeling this way? Is there anything in your life that may be contributing to these feelings? If the answer seems to be pretty consistent with what's described above, it may be a pretty safe bet to attribute it to seasonal depression. To confirm, make sure to speak with a healthcare provider to get a full-rounded examination and diagnosis.
Once you’ve determined the cause of your depleted mental state, the next step is to make a plan for how to deal with it. SAD affects everyone differently; some people who already struggle with mental health issues may be more prone to it, as well as notice it affecting them in more intense ways compared to those who don’t have preexisting conditions.
Dealing with SAD may be as simple as including a few lifestyle changes: eating more nutrient dense foods, planning for more social engagement such as movie nights with friends, dates with a partner or even just taking the time to call family. Regardless of how, it's important to take care of yourself when the weather takes a turn for the worse and those simple pleasures we take for granted aren’t so easily accessible.
Counseling services are able to help with any student’s needs if desired at 120 Richmond Quad (North Campus) or by contacting the office at 716-645-2720.
Marina Noack is a senior arts editor and can be reached at marina.noack@ubspectrum.com
Photo: Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
