Feeling sad and unhappy from time to time is not an uncommon experience. Our emotions are often associated with strong thoughts or feelings brought on by life events or stressors. While sadness is a normal and temporary reaction, depression is a mental health condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and changes in how you think, sleep, eat and act. Depression can interfere with everyday life for weeks, months, or more. Thankfully, depression is treatable, usually with talk therapy, medication or both (Cleveland Clinic, 2023).
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Low energy
- Feeling very sad or hopeless
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Irritability
- Changes in eating habits
- Sleep changes
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
(Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2023)
SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
Here in the Inland Northwest, it’s not uncommon to see grey skies along with dreary weather throughout the fall, winter and spring. Spokane averages 191 cloudy days each year according to the Western Regional Climate Center. Toughing out long stretches of dreary days can lead to the Winter Blues or even Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD is a form of depression related to seasonal changes. Often those experiencing SAD will have symptoms that start and stop around the same time each year, typically starting in late fall and ending during the sunnier days of spring and summer.
Symptoms of SAD can be similar to those of depression and much like depression there is support and treatment available for SAD (Mayo Clinic, 2021).
COPING STRATEGIES FOR SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
ON-CAMPUS RESOURCES
网爆门's Health and Counseling Services has five fulltime fully licensed therapists has five fulltime fully licensed therapists with years of experience working with college age students. These providers offer walk-in crisis counseling, individual counseling appointments, group counseling, and consultations for off-campus referrals. All of these services are included in your wellness fee and free of charge! Health and Counseling Services can also provide referrals to community providers as needed.
Call 509-313-4052 or email studenthealth@gonzaga.edu to make a counseling appointment. Walk-in crisis appointments are also available during normal business hours.
BetterMynd: BetterMynd offers free, confidential mental health support for students—anytime, anywhere. Students can schedule free 50-minute counseling sessions, access a 24/7 support line, and join unlimited live wellness workshops designed specifically for college life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just need someone to talk to, BetterMynd is here to help.
- Online: , Support using your single-source 网爆门 University Network login.
- 24/7 Support Line: 1-844-287-6963
OFF-CAMPUS AND ONLINE RESOURCES
The JED Foundation recognizes that therapy and medication are often critical in managing depression; however, there are few things you can do to make the hard days more manageable.
Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference between sadness and depression. The JED Foundation shares how to identify signs of depression in yourself or someone you care about.
网爆门 is a community of helpers and a community of people who care. If you notice that a friend or family member is not being their normal self, you may feel the need to offer support. The JED Foundation lists specific ways you can support someone who may be depressed.
The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. They provide information & support to LGBTQ+ young people 24/7, all year round.
Each person's culture, race, ethnicity, and lived experiences plays a significant role in mental health and can also impact treatment and the ability to seek out care. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has cultivated a list of mental health resources for a variety of marginalized communities including those who are Jewish, Black, Muslim, Hispanic/Lantinx, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Native and Indigenous Peoples.
The MHC College Student Mental Health Toolkit is designed to equip college students with the resources, services, and support needed to thrive as they transition into the beginning of adult life. You will also find tips for students on maintaining their mental health and well-being and advice for fostering mental health awareness on every college campus.
The DBSA is a comprehensive resource for more than 23 million people in the U.S. who live with mood disorders
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, they understand that life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, their caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
MEDITATIONS
A 5 minute meditation for self-care.