Part of a series with Rowan University’s Wellness Center, this collaboration aims to educate students about personal well-being options. For further updates, follow @rowanuwellness on social.
Written by Kaitlyn Jennings, graduate student pursuing a master’s in higher education
Seasonal Depression is a type of depression that happens during certain seasons of the year, mostly in the fall or winter time. During winter, less sunlight and shorter days can be linked to a chemical change in the brain. According to asi.ccp.edu, seasonal depression is harsher on college students due to the challenges that we can face such as new routines new environments, social expectations, and academic pressures.
Types of Seasonal Depression
Fall-onset: Otherwise known as winter depression, these symptoms can begin in the late fall to the early winter. These symptoms tend to ease during the summer months.
Spring-onset: Otherwise known as summer depression, these symptoms can begin in the late spring into early summer.
Common Symptoms of Seasonal Depression
- Anxiety and grouchiness
- Excessive tiredness (fatigue)
- Increased sleep and daytime drowsiness
- Decreased ability to focus
- Trouble thinking clearly
- Increased appetite, especially for sweets and carbohydrates
Many of these symptoms tend to follow a recurring pattern, worsening and improving around the same times every year.
How is Seasonal Depression Treated?
Exposure to sunlight: Spending time outside or even near a window can help to ease the symptoms.
Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help to change the negative views that you may have of yourself or what’s around you. One of CBT’s many benefits is that it can help you to identify things that can cause you stress and how to manage them.
What Can You Do?
Start by giving yourself grace in moments when you feel down or overwhelmed. College can be stressful, and it is important to acknowledge your emotions without any judgment. More coping strategies include:
- Regular physical activity: exercise releases endorphins that can boost your mood
- Maintaining a balanced diet: voiding excessive sugar and processed foods
- Establishing a sleep routine
- Engaging in hobbies or creative activities
- Seeking social support: connect with friends, reach out to counselors, or join a student organization
Remember that you are not alone in this. Seasonal depression can be challenging, but it is temporary, and there are many ways to manage it. Be kind to yourself and take small steps toward feeling better (yes the small things count too!). Also, be sure to lean on the support that is available to you. Whether it’s through self-care, seeking help, or making small daily changes, you have the strength to get through this. There are brighter days ahead, and you deserve to feel your best.
Works Cited
https://asi.cpp.edu/seasonal-depression-and-its-effects-on-college-students