By Phoebe Piserchio, Editor-in-Chief

As the crisp winter air rolls in, an often unnoticeable but significant change can occur within students. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), most commonly coined “seasonal depression”, often brings a sense of melancholy among students, leading them to be more susceptible to match the weather’s dark and cold ambience. This form of depression is more than just “winter blues”; it is a mental health condition that follows a seasonal pattern, most frequently developing during the winter time. 

Seasonal depression is a subtype of major depressive disorder that aligns with specific seasons. Many researchers attribute its factors to a reduction in daylight, shorter days, and variations of serotonin and melatonin levels. For students already experiencing troubles with academics and finals, seasonal depression can only increase the challenges they face, impacting concentration, motivation, and overall well-being.

While seasonal depression can pose difficulty, there are many effective coping strategies to help students navigate during this difficult time. Studies show that incorporating Vitamin D into your diet can boost serotonin levels, as the reduced sunlight can lead to Vitamin D deficiency. Further, keeping a diary or journal can boost emotional well-being, as well as doing gentle exercise activities such as yoga or walking.

Yet for a student, the outcomes of seasonal depression may come harsher than other people. Freshmen may be nervous for their first round of finals, or for seniors it could be balancing the influx of college applications with the already challenging finals. But, no matter what obstacles arise these last few weeks of fall semester, it is important to remember that almost all students are experiencing some form of burnout, and there is light out of the tunnel. Socialize with loved ones, buy yourself a sweet treat, and get excited for the sunnier 2024 Spring Semester!