...Finally, the end of the year, end of the semester, and end of the stress...at least that is what it should be(!)
For many the change of the season could trigger S.A.D., otherwise known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. This issue is typically found to affect individuals at the dusk of Autumn through the Winter months, and it can interfere with a person's daily routines and have a profound impact on mental health. Although some of the S.A.D. symptoms are aligned with depression, it is important to distinguish the two. Symptoms of S.A.D. include low energy, and mood fluctuations that are directly impacted due to a change in daylight hours. This acknowledges the importance of seeking a clinical professional to make a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for any person based on specific criteria. Raising awareness about S.A.D. for college students is important as it highlights the impact that it may have on academics as levels of sadness, resilience, and engagement with studying. Females experience higher likelihood of S.A.D. The main contributing factor is a lack of exposure to sunlight to balance melatonin and Vitamin D (Jamal et al. 2024). While these findings are from much colder geographical regions, it is still important to acknowledge the impact of weather on a person's psychological and physiological aspects.
Recommendations
Unfortunately, there is no magic pill that will immediately make S.A.D. go away, however some depressive symptoms could be treated. One of the most popular treatments is light therapy. This can mean making an effort to go outside and bask in the sun or buying a natural light lamp for one's workstation. Walking for 10 mins and in taking the sunlight is very healthy and has been proven time and time again. Doing physical activity that you enjoy is a great way to improve mood and improve energy levels. Establishing a routine could assist with managing the symptoms, as they typically interfere with daily routines. This also gives a person an opportunity for physical activity and meditation. Mindfulness exercises can help bring attention to the present by giving one the time and space to reflect on thoughts and to slow down negative thoughts.
Remember, just five minutes of a mindfulness exercise can make a difference. Limit social media and increase social activity. Excessive screen time can magnify negative narratives and sensations of loneliness. Maintaining social support systems can reduce feelings of isolation. For more intensive support seek peer support groups or a mental health counselor.
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