With the onset of winter comes colder weather, a long awaited vacation from school, and the return of the FAFSA.
Despite all of the excitement this might bring, some are subject to a mental juxtaposition, which means the change of
season is dreaded instead of anticipated. While seasonal depression does exist, there are steps that can be taken to
mitigate the disorder. School Psychologist Dr. Laura Alles said, “Although holidays are thought to be fun celebrations, they often are complicated with loneliness, stress, high emotions, and feelings of regret or loss. Seasonal depression, or SAD, is no stranger to high schoolers. According to the National Library of Medicine, a study in 1995 concluded, “1.7 percent and 5.5 percent of 9-19-year-old children may have seasonal affective disorder” (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). Given that almost 30 years have passed since, the numbers might be even higher nowadays. The triggers for seasonal depression vary widely depending on the person affected. According to a European mental health charity, Mind, possible causes of SAD include the effects of diminishing light, a disrupted body clock, problems with melatonin and serotonin levels arising from the change of season, and the impact of weather and temperatures (mind.org.uk). While symptoms appear the same as regular depression, “Symptoms specific to winter-onset SAD, sometimes called winter depression, mayinclude oversleeping, appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates, weight gain, tiredness or low energy,” according to the Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org). Alles said, “A diagnosis of SAD typically happens in adults who live in gloomy climates, so it is fairly rare out here in San Diego. Actually more people report SAD type of symptoms during our June gloom time than during winter months. That being said, this is a stressful time of year for so many.”It’s important to not self-diagnose; rather, adopt treatment methods if experiencing similar symptoms. Alles said, “SAD is often treated with light therapy which mimics natural sunlight. Getting enough sunlight is also part of the treatment plan for depression. This is a good reminder for all of us who are feeling additional strain in our lives to get enough sunshine, stay on a healthy sleeping and eating schedule, get some exercise, stay connected to others and know who to turn to when life gets hard.”UC High ASB Wellness Commission President Junior Sophia Klapperich said, “It’s important to know you are not alone. There are so many people around you that love and care for you, even if it doesn’t feel like it. Although it can be challenging to break the cycle of depression, asking for help is a key factor.”