As the weather changes and temperatures drop, the new autumn season can bring more than just pumpkin spice. I’m familiar with the phenomenon myself – as the leaves change color and fall, my mood seems to plummet right alongside them. For many of us, the patterns of a new season bring with it waves of anxiety, sadness, and frustration. Seasonal depression isn’t easy, and it can feel debilitating beyond belief. My goal in this article is to help those dealing with such a whirlwind of emotions find a way back to a place where they can thrive and find the strength to keep going by explaining what “seasonal depression” is and how to find your own emotional heater in this chilly, unrelenting weather.
The National Institute of Mental Health defines Seasonal Affective Disorder, or “seasonal depression,” as “mood changes [that] are more serious and can affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities.” Many people feel a bit down when the weather gets colder, and vice versa. With seasonal depression, though, these feelings are extraordinarily intense. You may lose interest in things that you usually enjoy, have difficulty focusing in school or at work, struggle with energy and sleep, or even lose control of your moods.
No matter how it manifests, it’s important to not blame yourself if you notice these things happening. SAD is a real condition, and the best thing you can do when you recognize the signs is to try and find a healthy way to cope. Remember to keep yourself warm; even the physical sensation of warmth can help with stabilizing mood and provide some comfort. Talking with friends or family that you trust about what you’re feeling can help as well. Within the warmth of heaters and those you love, strength can be found.
