Seasonal Depression? We Don’t Know Her

And just like that, it’s November. The air is crisp, the ground is frosting, fall is upon us and, unfortunately, so is the end of Daylight Savings Time. Say goodbye to the days of 9 p.m. sunsets and soaking up the sunshine. It can be difficult to have a positive mindset when there are months of bleak fall and winter weather in our future. It’s easy for the short days and cold weather to get the best of you. 

First, let's debunk what it means to fall victim to S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder). Seasonal depression occurs in climates where there is significantly less sunshine throughout the day. The lack of sunlight causes your brain and body to produce less serotonin, which is the chemical that regulates our mood. Without the proper amount of serotonin, it can leave you feeling depressed, hopeless and fatigued. Before seeking help from a professional, The Edge has tips and tricks for beating seasonal depression. 

With the sun setting at 5 p.m., it can be easy to get into a funk. It can be challenging leaving work or class when it’s already dark, but try to avoid going home and getting right into bed. Just because it is dark does not mean we can’t enjoy ourselves. Prioritize your social obligations. Although the days may feel shorter, in reality, Daylight Savings Time was designed for the sun to rise earlier in the morning. Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage, become a morning person and soak up all the vitamin D you can get. 

If you’re not much of a morning person, try out phototherapy. Recommended by mental health professionals, phototherapy is a form of light therapy that is thought to boost mood and sleep, easing S.A.D. symptoms. You can purchase a S.A.D. lamp or a sunshine alarm clock for relatively cheap, and it can be used at any point in the day whenever you need an energy boost.

Embrace the seasons. We always want what we can’t have. During the dog days of summer when we’re all dripping in sweat, we are all wishing for some cooler days.

Now, they are upon us. Fall arguably has some of the best seasonal activities. So, rather than sulking at home, take a trip to the pumpkin patch, go apple picking, go on a hike or try out a new festive recipe.

There is a happy medium between not sulking at home and practicing self-care or having yourself a cozy night in. Sometimes sitting at home in front of the fireplace and lighting a candle is healing for the mind and body. You know yourself better than anyone, so at the end of the day, it is all about finding a balance that works for you. It is important to realize that seasons come and go. If you’re feeling sad or depressed, just know your feelings are valid, but this too shall pass.