As the days become shorter and the weather grows colder, many students are saddened by the thought of staying indoors and away from friends. While conversations around social isolation loom over the COVID-19 pandemic, experts fear individuals will be hit extra hard this year with another type of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Commonly known as a major depressive disorder with seasonal patterns, SAD occurs in individuals who experience symptoms similar to depression in the fall and winter months. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a lack of sunlight can worsen SAD symptoms, which include loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite, altered sleep patterns and increased fatigue.
(Photo courtesy of Anna Trendell)
Anna Trendell, a senior majoring in integrated strategic communications, notes how the Pacific Northwest is an especially dark region. Gray clouds and frequent rain may be its claim to fame, but the weather can also make for extra gloomy winters. Trendell says the darker weather discourages her from going outside, which is her favorite place to be. She also mentions that in years past, was able to use school as an excuse to get out of the house, but with students no longer in classrooms, this coping strategy is no longer an option.
“I’m not a homebody and I try to keep busy doing things outside of my house. [Before] COVID-19, school was definitely a thing that in the wintertime helped me get out of my house. … I tried to spend time with my friends at school to stop the seasonal depression as much as I could. But now I’m not seeing my friends, I’m at home all the time and on my computer all the time,” Trendell said.
Since the pandemic has induced hardships on everyone, people may feel annual SAD symptoms on top of side effects from collective social isolation. WSU Vancouver professor and clinical psychologist, Karen Schmaling, specializes in researching depression and explains feeling large amounts of stress caused by the pandemic can worsen depression this winter.
“Stress can trigger and exacerbate depressive symptoms in general, and because we expect both COVID-19 infections and SAD to increase in the winter, it’s not a good combination. Some of the symptoms of SAD, like eating and sleeping more than usual, and withdrawing socially have been occurring as part of COVID-19 for some people, but whatever the cause or causes, there are strategies people can do,” Schmaling said.
Getting natural or artificial light can be a very helpful strategy, according to Schmaling. She encourages students to get outside, even if it is dreary. But, if getting outside is not an option, students might consider light therapy which prompts participants to sit near a lightbox, emitting light that mimics the sun from outdoors.
(Photo courtesy of Karen Schmaling)
“It can be harder to be outside because of the weather, but getting outside is important for the light, exercise and sense of openness that we [experience from] outside can be a good contrast to spending so much time inside,” Schmaling said.
“Stress can trigger and exacerbate depressive symptoms in general, and because we expect both COVID-19 infections and SAD to increase in the winter, it’s not a good combination.” – Karen Schmaling
Additionally, Schmaling states social connection helps curb many depressive symptoms, including those suffering from SAD. Despite COVID-19 restrictions, finding various forms of social engagement during the pandemic can be hard, but not impossible. Engaging with others via zoom or joining one of the several clubs on campus can be a way for students to stay socially connected to the VanCoug community.
“A number of the student clubs are meeting virtually. Our library is currently open to students with limits on numbers, and everyone needs to attest regarding COVID symptoms before going to campus and wearing a mask. But, if someone feels isolated, it could help to be on campus and around others safely. There are miles of walking trails on campus, and that’s a way to feel connected to campus, be outside and get light and exercise,” Schmaling said.
No matter the cause of depressive symptoms this winter, VanCougs should not be afraid to reach out for help in regards to mental health. It is recommended by Mayo Clinic to seek therapy if needed. Additionally, Schmaling states WSU Vancouver offers several resources including the Student Wellness Center which provides professional counseling services to students in need.