As seasons begin to change, mental health begins to plummet around America. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal depression, has begun to take its toll on the mental health of people around Wheeling. Looking into a deeper scope, seasonal depression is most seen in many high schoolers around the area. As the earth enters yet another winter cycle, the northern hemisphere of the world isn’t getting the serotonin levels from the sun the everyday people need. Seasonal depression can worm its way into even the happiest person. The National Institute of Mental Health states, “It is estimated that millions of Americans experience SAD, although many may not know they have this common disorder. In most cases, SAD begins in young adulthood.” High schooler’s mental health is of the utmost importance this time of year, and it is especially important for young adults to be aware of this ongoing trend of mental health this time of year.
The effect that SAD has in young adults, even just around Wheeling, is acknowledged by Wheeling Park High school’s mental health counselor, Dr. Jill Maloney.
“You can definitely see when the time changes and it starts to get dark, people are not wanting to get out and do things more so they start secluding themselves and are not doing many activities,” said Maloney.
This creates a downward spiral for many people, as it creates an environment of solitude and seclusion for students. Living dormant inside your head, seemingly alone, can chip away at your sense of happiness. As time trudges forward, it is easy to keep spiraling south, settling in the sadness that is invading your mental space.
Beloved mentor and Wheeling Park teacher, Dr. Romick shares his thoughts on how to escape the dark thoughts that may swarm your mind.
“Talk to somebody, because almost all the time even if you can just get something off your chest you will feel so much better,” said Dr. Romick.
Depression can grow and fester inside your mind, pulling you away from the people and things that you love most. Notice that by doing the opposite, you can slowly dig yourself out of the darkness in your head.
“Reach out for help. If you are struggling with something tell somebody that person can help you come up with a plan of what to do. Get involved. Even if it is as something as simple as starting a new routine,” said Dr. Jill Maloney.
Give yourself a reason to wake up in the morning. Every dawn of a new day is a fresh start to make new choices, join new things, and push forward to get through this tricky period in time.
It is important to not see these winter seasons as dead months, but instead, to see this time of year as the bridge to Earth’s annual rebirth. Students should strive to persevere through this time and get involved in the community to push past the seasonal sadness. It can be difficult to overcome this time of dreaded space between Christmas and summer, but it is important to find joy in the little blessings in life. Pick up a hobby, spend time with family or friends, go out and enjoy what our community has to offer. Sometimes it is hard to see past all of the sadness that can overwhelm you. That said, you are not alone. If you are experiencing deep depression this season, understand that many others are feeling the same way. It is okay to struggle, but it is important that you don’t give up.
