With a lack of sunlight and outdoor time, it can be hard to stay mentally healthy in the winter. Here are some college-specific tips to help.
Winter can be a hard few months for a lot of people when it comes to mental health. Most people have heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a type of depression related to changes in seasons (according to the Mayo Clinic), but the winter months can affect people without this ailment as well. A lack of sunlight, outdoor time, and exercise can lead to greater symptoms of depression and anxiety.
As the temperatures begin to fluctuate and give false hopes of spring, here are some things that college students can do to stay mentally healthy all winter. Even though we'll be on spring break next week, I think these tips would be great to begin to practice over our break and to incorporate as we return to campus with a couple weeks of winter remaining.
1) Light Therapy
As hard as it is, and as cold as it is, exposure to sunlight is essential for health, both mental and physical. Without it, one may become deficient in Vitamin D. If light therapy is not a possibility, supplementation of Vitamin D is another option.
2) Exercise
This is something that everyone has heard countless times, but exercise is massively beneficial to not only physical health, but mental wellbeing as well. Exercise reduces symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression while also promoting healthy habits. The exercise doesn't even have to be intense to reap these benefits; a long walk will do.
3) Routine
Establishing a routine can be a helpful way to add structure and reduce symptoms of depression and stress. It can help establish good habits as well as keep you organized and stress-free with regards to school. In my next post, I'll talk more about establishing a routine and why it's so important.
4) Being Social
Whenever you feel your mental health declining, it is essential not to isolate yourself. Spending time with friends can help you reduce depression and feelings of loneliness. Plus, it's fun!
Make sure to check back later this week for my classmates' reflections and views of MSMU before we head into Spring Break!