Winter is depressing, and not just metaphorically. Darkness plagues the majority of the day, nights feel infinite, and many feel their mental health decrease during this time of year. This can be largely credited to the mental health condition known as SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). As the name suggests, SAD is defined by the American Psychiatric Association as “a mood disorder characterized by depression that occurs at the same time every year…occur[ing] in climates where there is less sunlight at certain times of the year”.
“SAD makes everyday tasks and living a lot harder,” said Rebecca Birnbach, a student at Northfield Mount Hermon struggling with SAD. “I can usually try to work through times of great stress and anxiety, but during the winter season I… feel like I can’t do it as easily with SAD,” said Birnbach. She further expresses that all of the other present stresses, such as COVID-19 induced isolation and college admissions, made this winter especially difficult.
So, what can be done to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder? A counselor at NMH offered their insight on different ways to cope. “Enjoying helping each other to co-regulate and… practicing camaraderie is a great place to start,” says the counselor. Whether trying out NMH’s Meditation Club or grabbing dinner with a friend, there are many ways to work on your mental health by connecting with others. Additionally, the health center offers Happy Lights for rent; lamps that provide much-needed additional light exposure during these darker and shorter days. This counselor mentioned that the health center is “always open to new ideas and feedback” surrounding what they can do to support their students and encourages anyone to reach out if they are struggling.
