Have you heard of S.A.D.?

S.A.D., also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, is a type of depression that is triggered by the seasons with fall and winter being the most depressing of the four seasons. As the short, cold and gloomy days roll in, there is no denying that even the best of us can and will feel a bit sad.

I love the colder months, because I get to layer up my favourite clothes and drink more tea, but I have my days like everyone else. The days when all you want to do is stay in bed, wear pyjamas all day and not even think about school.

I know how you are/might be feeling.

Lack of motivation and energy can be early signs of depression and fighting these feelings might help you perform your best during your studies. With the effects of the weather and the pressure of school, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed, but I have compiled a list of simple ways that can help beat the blues and keep you sane.

Stay organized

Staying organised is a easy way to keep you on track of you assignments and deadlines. Doing this will not only gives your schedule more freedom but will keep you from stressing out and rushing to finish assignments.

I recommend keeping a little notebook or calendar to write down due dates and other important information. For smartphone users, having a calendar on your phone is not only convenient but is also a sure way to keep that information with you at all times.

Think colours

Take a minute and think about two colours that make you happy. Once you have found them, try to find cool and fun ways to incorporate them into your outfits.

Colours and clothes are a great way of changing mood. Sometimes when I’m feeling a bit down, I turn to my closet. I put on some of my favourite pieces and just dance in the mirror to my favourite songs. I know that just made me seem a bit crazy but it helps.

For starters, try changing your hair, lip- or nail- colour. Those are great places to start experimenting with colours to find your pick-meup colour. You could even try incorporating florals in winter, I believe it tricks the mind in thinking it’s just a cool spring day.

Exercise

“A body in motion stays in motion.” Sir Isaac Newton sure knew what he was talking about. Exercising is a great way to not only improve your health but it is also a great mood booster.

When you exercise, the brain releases a chemical called endorphins. I think of endorphins as our body’s natural “happy pill,” but endorphins are responsible for reducing pain and elevating moods. Ever wonder why people spend hours in the gym or go out running? They don’t only do it because it keeps them healthy, but it also makes them feel happier. Studies have also shown that when you exercise, you sleep better and boost your self-esteem.

I recommend getting a gym membership or find an alternative means of fitting a workout into your weekly routine – anything from taking the stairs, to yoga, to dancing for at least 30 minutes. I guarantee that you will feel and perform better.

Have some fun

Fun for many people can mean different things. Whether it is going clubbing, staying at home binge-watching all your favourite shows on Netflix or painting, we all have something that we do for fun.

I don’t know about you guys, but when I’m stressed on of my favourite things to do is to just sit and sketch. Sometimes it makes no sense what I am sketching but just sitting there and having a moment to myself and creat not only helps me feel better, but it also helps me feel centred and at peace when I leave the drawing board.

Consider having fun as your antidepressant.

Depression is an illness and no one is immune. But you do have the ability to fight it and win even though you can’t see it happening right now. Try these tips with the addition of eating healthy and surrounding yourself with positive influences. If they don’t seem to be working, contact a professional be it doctor or counsellor.