What is Seasonal Depression? 

Sanjana Singh, Y10

Winter marks the end of a year. In the northern hemisphere, the season typically starts from late November or early December and ends around February. There are many occasions to celebrate in winter, such asHanukkah, Diwali, Christmas, Kwanzaa and many more,  all celebrations that are associated with bright lights, happiness and an overall cheerful aura. However, in literature, winter is written with melancholic themes such as ending, death, sorrow and sadness. 

‘SAD’ also known as seasonal affective disorder or seasonal depression is a type of depression that affects individuals during particular seasons in the year. There are two types of SAD. Fall/winter-onset (also called “winter depression”) where symptoms of depression begin in late autumn to early winter months. And spring/summer-onset (or “summer depression”) where symptoms of depression begin in late spring to early summer. Although, SAD during summer and spring is less common.

So, why does fall/winter-onset SAD happen? There is no clear explanation to why SAD happens but there are many theories. One of them is that there is a decrease in the sunlight that people are exposed to. Less sunlight and shorter days are assumed to be related to a chemical change in the brain. People with SAD have reduced levels of serotonin, which helps to regulate moods. Exposure to sunlight is suggested to increase the brain’s release of serotonin.

Melatonin, a hormone related to sleep, is also linked to SAD. The production of melatonin is stimulated by darkness. So when days are darker and shorter, the body naturally starts to produce melatonin. The bodies of people with SAD make too much melatonin, which causes symptoms like fatigue, low-energy levels and drowsiness. 

A common misconception made is that SAD is an alternative term to ‘winter blues’. Which is incorrect.If you suspect that you experience SAD during the winter, remember that depression isn’t something that one can simply ‘snap out of’. It takes time and patience to feel better. Remember…if you find yourself struggling with the symptoms of SAD, ask for help from family, friends or professionals. It isn’t something you should battle alone.

Happy Winter!

Sources:

1.)https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org 

 2.)https://www.nimh.nih.gov  

3.)https://www.dcmedical.org 

 4.)https://www.webmd.com

How Nature Heals Us 

Vana Lui, Y11

Furthermore, it has been shown that trees and plants release fragrant molecules known as phytoncides, which, when breathed, can stimulate positive changes in the body in an approach resembling aromatherapy, which has been explored for its therapeutic advantages. Additionally, admiring a natural waterfall may do far more than enhance your Instagram feed; it can trigger emotions of wonder, which have a range of psychological benefits. 

"People's moods improve after a short burst of nature exposure," explains Ming Kuo, an environment and behaviour scientist at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign.  

Unsurprisingly, city inhabitants are significantly more likely than rural dwellers to suffer from depression and mood problems. That's unfavourable news, considering cities are home to over 80% of Americans. The particular process by which nature aids mood disorders is unknown, but studies agree that spending time outdoors tends to raise emotions. If you live in a city, I recommend forest bathing, a Japanese well-being exercise that promotes mental calmness and better mental health via mindfulness, a systemic immune boost, and blood pressure reduction through nature therapy.