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The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Towson chapter.

By MarDaya Arrington

Have you ever found yourself sleeping more and being less productive in the fall and winter seasons? This common shift in emotions is caused by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In addition to sleepiness and loss of productivity: loneliness, mood swings and sadness are all symptoms of SAD. From experience, I know how these symptoms can hinder someone’s performance in school, work… overall life. I have missed classes and events with friends because of the exhaustion and mood swings I experience throughout these seasons. So, I’m sure you’re wondering, how do I deal with this sadness during some of the hardest times of the year? 

Here are three different coping mechanisms that help me ease my seasonal depression; 

  1. Morning Routine: Having a set morning routine that makes you smile in the morning is key! I like to include long showers, music and breakfast in my daily morning routine. These are all things that truly make me happy. So, when creating your new morning routine, be sure to add whatever makes you feel your best. 
  1. Daily Sunlight: Sunlight is ESSENTIAL! Sunlight is important because it provides the body with vitamin D which gives your body energy. I like to get sunlight first thing in the morning by simply opening a window. The bright light wakes me up and lets me know it is time to start the day. If you don’t have access to a window, go outside! 
  1. Getting exercise: Stay active by doing an activity you love! Staying active prevents me from taking naps that may exceed the normal napping time. I like to go to the gym and I like to make it a social event by going with my best friends. Having seasonal depression can sometimes steer you away from social events, keeping you out of the loop, so bringing friends along is important too. There are many ways to stay active so find what works best for you! 

Seasonal depression likes to take you on an emotional rollercoaster, but finding what helps you overcome these stressful sometimes painful emotions makes your life smoother and more enjoyable. Remember what works for me may not work for you, so find what makes YOU happy and implement it into your life. I hope my tips have given you hope that there are ways to ease seasonal depression.  Happiness and productivity are right around the corner, don’t let anything stop you from doing you!

MarDaya Arrington is part of the Towson University chapter of Her Campus. This is her first year writing about fashion, mental health, and life events. She has a passion for expressing and sharing ideas with the world, which is why she is excited to continue her journey with Her Campus! MarDaya is in the class of 2026, majoring in Business Administration and concentrating in Marketing at Towson University. After graduating she plans to have a career in real estate and social media. She has always had a love for real estate in all aspects, selling, investing, flipping, etc. And I have become increasingly interested in social media because of all the creative ways you can use it. Outside of working, MarDaya likes to do self-care, shop, and hang out with friends and family. All three of these activities help her work towards her goals in life. She is very goal-oriented and is determined to do remarkable things in life.