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Students struggle with winter depression, sickness

Seasonal Affective Disorder strikes 4 percent of Americans annually

Jamie Moon MOO05002@BYUI.EDU Scroll Staff

Have you been feeling extra unhappy lately? Sleeping more than usual? If so, you might be suffering from winter depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder.

According to www.consumerreportsonhealth.org, about 4 to 6 percent of Americans suffer from SAD each year. It is seasonal and usually starts in September or October.

“For me, it begins in late September and usually lasts until April, May or sometimes even early June,” said Brandon Barrus, a sophomore from West Jordan, Utah.

Symptoms may vary for individuals. Barrus described his symptoms as “a lack of energy, wanting to take naps at random times during the day, a general feeling of melancholy and just feeling unhappy.”

Depending on the person, different treatments may be necessary. Doctors may prescribe medications, but some, like Barrus, prefer using a light box, which helps make up for the lack of light due to the season change.

“I sit in front of a light box for a half hour each morning. It makes a big difference and my wife has noticed a change as well,” Barrus said.

Barrus has a mild case of SAD, but was aware when he first noticed the symptoms.

“I got back from my mission to Madagascar where the sun rises at 6 a.m. no matter the season. I came home in January and the sun wouldn’t rise until 7:30 or 8 a.m.,” he said.

If you or someone you know has SAD, help is available on campus at the BYU-I Counseling Center.

If you are suffering from SAD, or even just a temporary, mild case of the winter blues, getting out can lessen the effects.

“Last winter, my roommates would watch TV constantly and it would make them grumpy,” said Brittany Rainsdon, a sophomore from Twin Falls, Idaho.

“It drove me nuts. I would have to leave and go do something and then come back. I think during the winter — just to get out — it’s fun to put on warm clothes and go play in the snow,” Rainsdon said.

As for avoiding sickness, some of the best ways to prevent winter illness are to avoid stress, avoid others who may have colds and get plenty of rest, according to American Health Magazine.

Activities available on campus can also help students avoid feeling cooped up in the wintertime, while allowing them the chance to get to know new people and find ways to get involved with various activities.