Do I Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?

I’ve never been officially diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.). But ever since I saw an advertisement about it while taking the subway, I started to wonder if that was the explanation for my sudden change in emotion when the weather would get colder and gloomier.

Some call it the Winter Blues, and I of course don’t want to diagnose myself with S.A.D. because what I’m feeling might not be as severe as those who actually have it. I want to avoid misdiagnosing myself, similar to when people feel sad and claim they have a mental illness when they don’t officially. I understand this downplays those who actually suffer from depression.

Then what is the reason for my moodiness? My extra stress? Not wanting to get out of bed much more than usual? Feeling like I don’t have any free time to myself? Only getting 1-3 hours of sleep? Is it just because this time of the school year is busy or is something adding on, making it worse?

Since I don’t have the opportunity to seek professional help due to my busy schedule and lack of financial resources, I need to try and fight this (possible) Seasonal Affective Disorder on my own.

Here are some things I do to part from what I think is Seasonal Affective Disorder:

Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder with Entertainment

• Pick up a new hobby. Painting has been very relaxing for me.
• Listen to your favourite music, or discover new music.
• Use Netflix as motivation. Get work done so you can watch a good movie or an episode (or more) of a series you’re interested in.
• Watch funny YouTube videos.
• Listen to funny and/or inspirational podcasts.

Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder with Relaxation

• If you can find time to meditate that’s great. But if not, napping works too!
• Sleep and alone time: If isolation makes you feel calmer and helps you organize your thoughts, then go for it!

Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder with Productivity

• Treat yourself to your favourite food/drink, but try to limit it to only once a week. Everything in moderation!
• Talk to friends and hang out if possible.
• Go out once a week, even if it’s just to run errands. It makes you feel accomplished to get something done on your to-do list that may be small, but necessary.
• Get rid of clutter. Whether that is in your room or office, sometimes cleaning up other areas in your house can be therapeutic as well.
• Write what you feel, it’ll be nice to look back on when you feel better. It signifies that you were able to overcome a rough time.

Take it one day at a time, baby steps. Admit that things are more difficult when you’re in a battle with yourself. Focus on the things that make you happy and bring you joy. Try to develop a positive mindset. Work on looking forward to something, for example, winter break is near! I hope these suggestions help you handle what may be Seasonal Affective Disorder. You don’t have to do all these things, but give a few of them a chance. See what is effective and stick with it. Thank you for reading.

©Parting Stories