Seasonal Depression FIX?

Asher Montano
Staff Writer
  During the cold months, some individuals experience low mood and energy levels, often due to shorter days and less sunlight. Seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (S.A.D.), causes some to feel tired, sad, or disinterested during certain points in the year. To the masses, the idea of this phenomenon are the feelings of sadness and worthlessness that come during the long bleak winter. According to Devyn Hinson, one of Bonneville High School’s counselors, what many typically call Seasonal Affective Disorder is actually categorized under the title Major Depressive Disorder with a Seasonal Pattern. According to Hinson, when it comes to the diagnosis of a major depression, one needs to be showing deep sadness, lack of motivation, and social isolation for longer periods of time. Furthermore, there are overlaps that occur with S.A.D. that the counselors tend to see. Some symptoms include grades falling, attendance dropping, and participation depleting.
   Mrs. Thompson, another trained counselor working at BHS, suggests a multitude of treatments for S.A.D. Counseling, through the help at BHS, seems to be one of the best means of help, especially for students who are falling behind. The only problem is that “many will not reach out for help,” Thompson says. It is especially important, however, for these individuals to seek help, and the BHS counselors are always available for anyone seeking their help. If there are long waiting lists, unfortunately, it could be difficult to get in contact with them. Even Thompson says, “It can be difficult pulling students out of class when they are already struggling with that class.” Like Thompson says, when grades are low, it becomes increasingly difficult to pull students out of class to visit the counseling office. Thompson suggests that students try to come in on their own time to seek help if they are not able to be pulled out of class. 
  In cases where these students do not want to receive help from counselors, there are some individual methods to help with S.A.D. Antidepressants, which must be prescribed, are an option for some kids, yet they are recommended to be used alongside counseling. A change in diet can further help when it comes to seasonal changes to increase and maintain energy levels. Also, it is increasingly important to set and sustain a sleep schedule ensuring 8-10 hours each night. Obtaining Vitamin D is another means of help!! Especially natural Vitamin D such as sunlight. Even though there is not much daylight in the winter months it is incredibly useful to expose oneself to that resource.  Lastly, both counselors/Thompson/Hinson recommend exercise and activity to alleviate the symptoms of S.A.D.; a short walk can trigger the brain to release endorphins and serotonin, making individuals feel more alert and refreshed
  It is not necessary to go through S.A.D. alone, even if it may seem all hope is lost. Help is out there, and as accessible through the counselors at the school. Please if help is needed it is more than easy to access that help.

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