How to Deal with Seasonal Depression in College

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views of her campus.

This article was written by a student writer from the Her West Chester Campus chapter.

For most of us, college is the first time we’ve been single, and it can be quite lonely. But dealing with seasonal depression in college can be extremely difficult when you’re feeling alone. But there are effective ways to help you manage your symptoms and maintain happiness. Student life can already be stressful for most of us, so it’s important to try to balance your studies and social life, as well as try to maintain self-care.

Here are some ways to combat seasonal depression while in college.

Sunlight:

Natural sunlight has been proven to be one of the best ways to improve your mood and circadian rhythm. Trying to spend time outdoors during daylight hours and soak up the sun in the morning can be helpful in combating seasonal depression. Even a short walk between classes can make a difference.

Stay physically active

Making exercise part of your daily routine will also help improve your mood. Physical activity has been proven to increase endorphin and serotonin levels. Both help improve your mood and energy. Try to incorporate regular exercise into your weekly routine, whether you go to the gym, take a fitness class or engage in outdoor activities.

Maintaining social connections.

Staying connected with friends and family can help combat the isolation that can sometimes be felt during seasonal depression. Try to spend time with friends, in clubs, study groups, or participate in group activities to maintain social interaction. Never hesitate to seek support if you are feeling overwhelmed. Many colleges offer mental health services that can provide amazing support, such as counseling and group support.

Manage your stress

Managing stress through mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, meditation or muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Apps like Headspace or Calm can help you with this. Another thing that can help you is taking breaks. Balancing academic life and personal time is key. Taking breaks, especially during long study sessions, can help reduce stress and prevent burnout.

Navigating student life (for some of us for the first time) can be challenging enough, and coping with seasonal depression can feel like an added burden. However, some small changes can make a significant difference. By taking steps to take advantage of natural sunlight, staying physically active, building strong social connections, and managing stress effectively, you can reduce the impact of seasonal depression and maintain a balanced and positive outlook on life. Remember, asking for help is not a sign of weakness; Many colleges have resources designed to support you through difficult times. Prioritize self-care, lean into your circle, and know that you are not alone.