(Photo courtesy of: the Epic) “Many students are reporting higher levels of seasonal depression and can struggle to handle it on their own.”
Riley Fontana
Connector Editor
To say any of my friends or I are thriving would be a lie, all of us are struggling. While, yes, we are college kids and are always struggling in some form due to classes and the overall state of the world, something is worse right now. The air got colder and the seasonal depression hit, but this year it is so much worse than it has ever been.
Our current working theories are that there is something in the air, or the unlimited access to Noah Kahan’s music is making it worse. We are all struggling to get out of bed and put on our adorable fall outfits and run to the pumpkin patches to celebrate Halloween. Fall has always been my favorite season, something about the colorful leaves meant change and new starts for me but now it feels like air that’s too cold to breathe and the looming fear of next semester.
I have seen firsthand in my classes too how much other students are struggling this autumn. There is barely anyone still coming to my classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays with a few more holding strong for Monday, Wednesday and Friday schedules. I am sure my professors have noticed as well, because even when most of the class is in attendance, no one is participating or answering questions. I would love to participate more than I currently am, I simply just lack the energy to raise my hand and share my thoughts.
There are several ways to combat seasonal depression and the way everyone seems to be feeling. UMass Lowell offers counseling through the Wellness Center for those looking for someone to talk to, but sometimes talking to a friend helps as well. It is really hard to get any form of help without asking for it first.
Another way I love to make myself feel better is sitting outside in the sun between classes. I become a little lizard at the picnic tables in front of Weed Hall and play some music soaking up the sun. This does not replace talking to people and checking in with my emotions, but it feels good and warms my skin for a while.
Other people suggest things such as sunrise clocks, but I am far too broke for that. There are cheaper alternatives to surviving. I wrote last week about the little treat system and that can be a really easy way to motivate yourself. Get yourself something small like a cookie or gummy worms after you finish homework or go to a full day of classes, soon it will not feel as hard.
If you are reading this and are struggling with depression, seasonal or not, please know you are not alone and help is out there. Reach out and ask for help and someone is sure to help you. You and I are stronger than the sadness the cold air brings with it; we have gotten through fall before and we will get through this one together.
