Erie weather is not only tough on our skin and cars but it also affects our mental health. Many people during these long winter months suffer from S.A.D. or seasonal affective disorder. S.A.D. is a type of depression that correlates with the seasons, according to Mayo Clinic. Symptoms usually start in the fall time while further zapping your energy during the winter months. This usually affects many northeastern people since our winter months last for quite an extensive period of time. These cold and dark days make many activities more difficult to do. In return, we almost go into a little hibernation with limited daylight. Our biological clock or circadian rhythm is disturbed during this reduction in sunlight which chemically makes us more susceptible to depression. S.A.D. happens to nearly everyone who is submersed in the winter weather for a lengthy amount of time as it is natural to crave sunlight. Symptoms vary person to person as some feel it more severely while it is totally manageable for others.

       

Grace Miller a freshman communication major at Behrend has come to Erie from California to attend school. Miller does believe the weather has changed her mood since moving from sunny California. “It is just bizarre having to put in so much effort to just go outside,” she states. Like Miller, many other people feel the same way prohibiting them from doing things and making us feel lazy and sluggish. Some would even use the word worthless. Miller tries to combat this feeling of static by simply “sucking it up”. Yes, it might be cold outside but it should not deter you from getting out and making the best of a wintery day. Miller's transition is especially extreme this year with a two day record of 65 inches of snowfall. From all of the Erieites, we wish newcomers good luck with their adjustment.

       

S.A.D. symptoms spawn during the peak of winter but they do not end when the snow melts. Spring and summer are also difficult for people who suffer from severe cases of seasonal affective disorder. Symptoms include trouble sleeping, poor appetite, weight loss and anxiety, according to WebMD. It is completely normal to feel down during the winter months. In fact, it would be strange if you did not feel a change in mood. Many clinics recommend to see a doctor when you start to lose interest in things you used to enjoy or find that your sleeping and eating habits have been tremendously disturbed. You should always get into contact with someone when you turn to drugs and alcohol for comfort or you have thoughts of suicide.

       

But if you are just feeling down during the dark days of winter, there are some tips. Like Miller said, “suck it up.” You could suck it up and brave the elements. Go to the gym or check out what is going on in McGarvey Commons even though the walk from your dorm feels like an eternity. Try and embrace winter activities. Go sled riding, try skiing, have a snowball fight, or build a snowman. Everyday is like a little adventure, especially with 65 inches of snow surrounding you. We’re in this together. The winter season does create depression for many people but it is also a time to have some fun.  The days of winter make us appreciate the sunny days of spring so much more. Try and find the light during the dark days of winter because it is there- you just have to being willing to look for it.