When the clocks go back and the sky turns black in the late afternoon, many of us feel our mood darken too.
Winter blues are a period were someone suffers from a bout of depression from the seasonal shift. It is also known as SAD, seasonal affective disorder.
According to the NHS, it can lead to lethargy, finding it hard to get up in the morning, lack of concentration, and other frustrating symptoms.
Winter begins in December and lasts until February. For some students, assessments can fall in that three-month period, and winter blues can become a barrier to good learning. It can even make students stop going out, sleeping more and missing classes, and overall feel pretty crummy.
In some severe cases, it may be wise to consult a GP. But in those milder cases, what can students do to combat those stubborn blues?
Embrace the light
With the limited sunlight throughout the day, it is important to soak up every bit of that clear morning sky. Get up, open the curtains, and take a morning walk to kick that circadian rhythm out its funk.
According to the NHS, the minimal sunlight can cause our bodies internal clock to get confused. Feeding our bodies as much sunlight as possible can help straighten it out. Even on those miserable cloudy days, the sun is still there so taking a stroll on campus between lectures can help.
You could consider buying a SAD light box to stimulate sunlight for when the sun is starting to go away a bit too soon for our liking.
Let nature in
Bringing nature into your space can provide benefits to your wellbeing in these colder months. It could decrease stress and anger, help depression, boost relaxation and many more.
Calming lavender plants in your room and bright green leaves create a perfect hobby to keep the mind at ease.
Going on walks around campus will not only provide sunlight, but it will bring the mind a bit of calm. Even watching nature documentaries has been suggested to provide a sort of meditation for the viewer. So, pop on some David Attenborough while studying.
Make studying more enjoyable
Winter months can make students feel lazier and unmotivated, and that’s okay.
When it comes to studying, fun little additions to your study routine can increase productivity and improve your overall learning. Apps like Flora can create a reward system in your mind. You set up how long you wish to study for and during that time you will be growing a tree. If you use your phone, the tree dies— yikes!
Taking a more artful approach to studying with colourful pens, drawings and diagrams can keep you focused. Remember when your school teachers told you to stop doodling? You are an adult now. If scribbling helps you, then scribble away!
Embrace the winter season
In Tromsø, Norway, the ‘Polar Night’ happens from November to January, a time when the sun does not rise at all. Yet, despite the lack of sun, Norwegians have a low seasonal depression rate. This is because they embrace winter and have a positive mindset when it comes to the colder time.
Try and avoid thinking winter is the season when you miss out on some things. Instead, picture it as the time of year when you gain things. This can bring more joy into the time of year.
For example, you get to have warm drinks and start decorating your space with cosy additions to warm up those winter blues. You get to enjoy Christmas markets with friends and think about gifts for family. And, of course, you get to wear comfortable layered outfits without sweating like in summer.
Remember to be kind to yourself
It is normal to be frustrated with yourself when you are feeling down but remember that winter blues are only your body responding to the changing season. Little things can go a long way when increasing your mood. Being kind and as understanding as you are to others with yourself will greatly improve your mental wellbeing. See your friends, get excited for the Christmas holiday, embrace the cosy element of the year. Do not be too hard on yourself.
Featured image credit: Pexels
