As the weather turns colder and the days get longer, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) strikes. A subset of major depression, SAD brings symptoms like increased irritation, lethargy, withdrawal, oversleeping, and fluctuating appetite with resulting weight gain. Nancy Stockton, Ph.D. and director of Counseling and Psychological Services at IU offers simple solutions to overcoming SAD and the winter blues.
Structure Your Time
Stockton recommends students fill their spare time with activities that will take their mind off the stress of impending finals and dropping temperatures. “Get out and engage in exercise, activities, and don’t hole up in your room!” she says. Finding a schedule and sticking to it will give you something to do so you won’t have time to think about the bad weather.
Embrace the Chill
Despite having to trudge through snow and slush, winter does have its perks. “Try and embrace the pleasant things about weather—winter sports, sledding, and hot chocolate,” Stockton says. Some students have been known to grab a tray from the dining hall and sled down a slope, but if breaking the rules isn’t your thing, check out one of IU’s many winter sports clubs for a great way to meet people and get out of the house.
Be Social
While you may not feel like it, interacting with friends and family is a good remedy. “Plan game nights, cooking parties, or movie parties,” she says. Having something fun to look forward to will make the days fly by and keep your mind off of the gloom.
Cut Back on Drinking
“Avoiding excessive use of drugs and alcohol is important,” Stockton says. “These can exacerbate depression.” While drinking may seem like a quick fix to unhappiness, it can actually serve to make you feel worse. Moderation is key.
