As the days get shorter, and the seasons get colder, Michigan transitions from spring to fall and finally to winter. The ground freezes, and snow begins to fall. But as the snowflakes fall, something else is rising: a feeling of sadness.
“I haven’t found enjoyment in what I used to,” said sophomore Frank Columbo . “It’s like winter strips the world of color and me of my happiness.” Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as seasonal depression, is characterized by recurring episodes of depression that happen around the same time each year, most commonly in the fall and winter months. While symptoms may vary from person to person, they all boil down to feeling worthless or guilty, changes in sleep patterns, loss of energy and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. However, despite the strong association with the seasons, there is no solid evidence that the cold weather is at fault. Here are the factors that may play a part in this seasonal sadness.
The article, What Doctors Wish Patients Knew About Seasonal Disorder, talks about how reduced exposure to natural daylight during the fall and winter months can disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm. This disruption can affect the production of hormones such as serotonin and melatonin, both of which play a role in mood and character. Melatonin levels vary based on the amount of sunlight the body receives, with the hormone being responsible for good sleep and mood regulation. Elevated melatonin levels can contribute to feelings of fatigue and depression. As for serotonin, it’s the hormone linked to well-being and happiness. With less sunlight being absorbed, the body decreases the amount of serotonin and melatonin produced, which can lead to depressive symptoms.
“During the summer, I feel so happy because there’s no school and no stress. I enjoy my summer activities and the people I’m around,” says Sophomore Ryan Renalds. “In the winter, no matter how happy I am, there’s this weight pushing down on me.”
This brings up an additional factor that contributes to these winter blues: stress. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) states that the sudden change of environment from an active summer to sitting for hours with assignments being thrown at students in the fall and winter can heavily affect a person’s mood.
For some, transitioning from fall to winter can lead to sadness. According to the article, 7 Things to Help Avoid Seasonal Affective Disorder, getting outside more, keeping a journal for sorting out emotions, writing down positive things and making plans to reach out to others, or things to avoid isolation in general, can make a difference. Alternatively, there’s always the option of hibernating until the spring.
As the seasons transition from fall to winter, being mindful of mental health and taking proactive steps to ensure that the season’s cold and darkness don’t take over is key to healthy fal and winter seasons. Winter may bring its challenges, but with the right strategies and support, joy can still be found in the midst of the chill.
