It’s fall y’all! It is time when most of us have pumpkin spice, Gilmore Girls, and all the baked goods on the brain. However, that is not the case for everyone. For more people than many realize, fall is a time of slowly losing themselves to the season changing and having no choice but to retreat into the shell they know all too well. This phenomenon of seemingly healthy people falling down a deep hole of sadness as soon as the leaves fall is known as seasonal depression. Although it may not be obvious, about 5% of the population in the US struggles with seasonal depression (National Institute of Mental Health), also known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD. It occurs because we as humans are biologically engineered to intake vitamin D from the sun and make it into dopamine, or the happy hormone. But during the months when the sun goes down earlier and rises later, it’s harder for our bodies to be happy from a chemical standpoint. There are many factors that can increase your risk of experiencing SAD, including being female, living far from the equator, and having other mental illnesses.

How can I prevent seasonal depression?
There are lots of resources online to help prevent seasonal depression, but some of the top tips are:
1. Keep up physical activity as much as possible – exercising releases endorphins, making you happy.
2. Continue socializing with friends and family – keeping in contact with loved ones can keep up your spirit
3. Be outside as much as possible – Even if the sun isn’t out, being outside can help you feel refreshed, and there is still vitamin D to be absorbed
4. Try to stay positive – even giving yourself small reminders can help your brain combat the lack of dopamine
5. Make time for yourself – doing little things for yourself, like taking a bath or making time to read a book for pleasure, creates a less stressful environment

How can I help someone struggling with seasonal depression?
Most people with seasonal depression don’t come outright and say so, but if you notice a friend displaying these symptoms, reach out and help them. Some of the best ways to do this are:
1. Keep in touch – even a simple text message can make them feel less alone
2. Make time to hang out – just sitting in the library or at one of your houses can help them feel appreciated and loved
3. Invite them on a walk – getting them outside without being alone can significantly boost their mood
4. Be a good listener – sometimes, those struggling just need someone to talk to and get help from