Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a mood disorder characterized by depression that occurs around the same time every year. As Minnesotans, we tend to experience it during the winter when the sun hides its face and subzero temperatures make it difficult to leave your apartment.

Luckily, there are many resources to help combat the negative effects of this illness. Using light therapy for just 20-30 minutes per day can result in improved mood and increased energy. SAD light boxes are available for purchase online and can make all the difference throughout the dark and cold winter months. “Using light therapy for just 20-30 minutes per day can result in improved mood and increased energy.”

Boynton Health, located at the University of Minnesota, is a great place to begin the journey to improved mental health. Boynton’s mental health clinic provides students and staff with psychiatrists who offer medication and referrals  for talk therapy. Both of these options can work in combating SAD but it often takes time for individuals to find the right combination of the two in order to be effective.

Another great resource that the university offers is Student Counseling Services (SCS). Located in Appleby Hall, SCS gives students a chance to talk with a professional about what is going on in their lives. These professionals are fully fortified to offer help and advice to those suffering from SAD. They can even refer students to the Disability Resource Center, which works to implement reasonable accommodations for students and staff in school and in the workplace. Simple accommodations can make a big difference in the journey to better mental health. 

If interacting with people is not your style, try hanging out and petting dogs during the week. Pet Away Worry and Stress (PAWS) takes place at different locations around campus during the week. Show up and pet dogs, bunnies and even a therapy chicken to combat stress. Visit their website at boynton.umn.edu to view their schedule.

SAD is not uncommon for those who reside in the Midwest. Fortunately, we are learning how to deal with it. From talk therapy, to medication, to the trending SAD light, all we can do is our best to take care of ourselves and others.