Seasonal Depression – The Cauldron
“Every time this happens, it’s only in winter,” says Anna Stelmakh, a junior at the Cleveland State University. “When the sun starts going down at 5 p.m., it’s like a switch flips in my brain. I lose all my motivation, and even getting out of bed feels impossible.”
For Stelmakh, the onset of winter marks the beginning of a long, challenging stretch. The seasonal changes bring more than just the cold; they bring a sense of isolation and fatigue that can feel overwhelming. Like many students, she experiences the effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that typically emerges during the winter months when sunlight is scarce.
“You’re so used to being active and social, and then winter hits, and it’s like everything slows down,” Stelmakh explains.
Stelmakh’s story is one that many students on campus can relate to. The drop in temperature and the shortened days can cause a dip in energy and mood, making it hard to stay on top of schoolwork or maintain the same level of social activity that students enjoy during the warmer months.
“I know I’m not the only one who struggles with this,” says Stelmakh. “There are so many people on campus who feel drained during this time of year, and it can be tough to even talk about it. But it’s important to recognize that this is real, and it’s okay to ask for help.”
Recognizing the impact of winter on her mental health, Stelmakh made some adjustments to her routine in an attempt to combat the winter slump. “Last year, I bought a light therapy lamp and started going for morning walks, even when it was freezing outside,” she says. “I knew it wasn’t going to fix everything, but it made a difference. I felt like I was doing something to help myself, and that was motivating.”
While light therapy and outdoor activity are effective ways to ease the symptoms of SAD, students facing winter struggles should also remember the importance of support systems. “Talking to friends and family really helps,” Stelmakh says. “When you feel like you’re alone in your feelings, reaching out and hearing that others are going through the same thing can make a world of difference.”
In her experience, finding small ways to stay connected and active can help maintain a sense of normalcy during the darker months. “Getting outside, even for just a few minutes, and seeing other people has helped me feel more grounded,” she says.
For those dealing with similar struggles, Stelmakh encourages seeking professional help if needed. “It’s important to talk to someone when it gets too overwhelming,” she says. “Counseling services on campus are great resources, and reaching out is always a step in the right direction.”
Here are some practical ways to combat seasonal depression:
- Get moving: Regular exercise, even a short walk or stretching, can boost your mood and energy levels.
- Stay social: Spending time with friends, joining clubs, or attending campus events can help break the cycle of isolation.
- Write it down: Journaling thoughts and emotions can provide clarity and reduce stress.
- Seek the light: Exposure to sunlight or a light therapy lamp can ease symptoms.
Winter can test resilience, but it also reminds students of their strength. With the right mindset and support, brighter days are ahead.