Spring Break
Post-summer blues common among students
Jennifer McLaughlin
Issue date: 10/16/02 Section: Life!
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Temperatures are decreasing, the sun is setting earlier and, for some, depression could be settling in.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of winter depression affecting an estimated half a million people every winter, according to the Seasonal Affective Disorder Association.
For many people, SAD is a serious disabling illness that prevents normal functioning without continuous medical treatment. For others, the ailment is a mild condition causing discomfort, but not severe suffering. This is what many refer to as a case of the "winter blues" or subsyndromal SAD, according to the SAD Association.
"I get more tired in the winter," Megan Zavolta, graduate student from Wheeling, said. "I don't like to get out of bed or to leave the house. Work in general seems to be more of a hassle when it gets cold outside."
SAD is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain due to the shortening of daylight hours and the lack of sunlight in the winter, according to the SAD Association.
Amy Saunders, from Student Health Education Programs, said, "If students see a change that they are not getting up for class or are having sad or suicidal thoughts, they should be seen (by a professional counselor)."
Saunders said the university offers free counseling services to students, which are paid for by activity fees.
"The more students withdrawal and isolate themselves the worse the depression will get," Saunders said.
She warned alcohol consumption only makes depression worse and will counteract any anti-depressant that is taken.
"Our counselors will work with students to develop activities to help change their activities and moods," Saunders said.
She said students should look for signs such as changes in eating and sleep patterns, feelings of sadness and poor concentration on schoolwork.
The symptoms of SAD usually recur each winter, according to the SAD Association. A diagnosis can be made after three or more consecutive winters of symptoms.