Nov 10th, 2016, 02:30 PM
Feeling SAD? A Few Simple Changes Can Bring The Light Back
Image Credit: Flickr/Anthony Quintano
Students give advice on coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder in the winter.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the changing of seasons, most commonly between the transition from fall to winter. SAD depression comes from lower levels of serotonin, which is a brain chemical that affects mood. One of the ways we get serotonin is from sunlight and there is a lot less of that in the winter. The disorder affects anywhere from 0-10% of a population depending on geographic location. According to Mental Health America, the farther from the equator, the more likely you are to suffer from SAD. However, you don't have to attend college in Iceland to feel the effects, it is common among students all over – including AUP. As the days get colder and shorter it might be a good idea to see how students cope. So, here are some students' advice on making it through the SAD winter.
Lillian Wagner, Junior, AUP
Image Credit: Lillian Wagner
Do you suffer from SAD? Do you know someone who does?
Myself and people in my family suffer from SAD
Do you like the cold?
I do enjoy the cold, coming from the mid-west the cold reminds me of traditions back home.
What do you do when it starts to get colder and darker?
Attempt to take the bus compared to the Metro as much as possible. Being above ground and seeing life outside helps to make you feel like life is still continuing even with the cold and darkness.
What are things you do to combat SAD? Any tips, hobbies, or activities?
To combat SAD I try to surround myself with friends, and be sure to make plans... and I have an accountability partner to make sure I keep these plans. I try to stay as active as possible. The cold sucks but life has to go on.
Isabelle Sturges, Freshman, State University of New York at Purchase
Image Credit: Eleanor Rothwell
Do you suffer from SAD? Do you know someone who does?
Honestly me and my mom.
Do you like the cold?
No!
What do you do when it starts to get colder and darker?
Drink hot chocolate.
What are things you do to combat SAD? Any tips, hobbies, or activities?
I honestly try at every attempt to leave the cold and preoccupy myself with the holidays so I have something to look forward too.
Jordan-Danielle Hamilton, Freshman, AUP
Image Credit: Jordan-Danielle Hamilton
Do you suffer from SAD?
Yes.
Do you like the cold?
No, why would I like the cold?
What do you do when it starts to get colder and darker?
I usually become more irritable, I lack motivation and energy, and I don't want to leave bed because it's cold out. Getting up is harder because it's dark all the time.
What are things you do to combat SAD? Any tips, hobbies, or activities?
People recommend sun lamps, which have a special bulb that helps make up for the lack of sunlight during the day. Establishing a good sleep routine also helps, as well as not looking at harsh lights, like from the computer. Exercise is also helpful because it keeps the blood moving and supplies endorphins.
