As the cold weather forces people inside, mental health issues may get worse or newly develop for many people.
The winter months bring a change in temperature and weather, which contributes to frequent changes in mood.
Daniel Foti, a psychology professor at Purdue, said that while those with preexisting mental health conditions may be impacted the most, the change of seasons can affect everyone.
“If you look at how common depression is across the globe … you see higher rates of depression as you get closer to the north and south poles than you do at the equator,” Foti said. “A lot of that is probably direct exposure to sunlight.”
Living near the poles doesn’t mean you’re doomed to gloom, though.
When the sun is out less, Foti said getting the recommended amount of uninterrupted sleep is very important to keep a stable mindset.
“Humans, we’re used to keeping our regular schedules intact,” Foti said. “No matter what the weather is like outside. That’s not how we’re wired biologically.”
Dr. Ayodeji Ogunleye, a psychiatrist at River Bend Hospital, said the holiday season can also cause lots of stress and anxiety that contribute to mental health issues.
“Anytime we set expectations, the space in between expectations and (reality) causes anxiety,” Ogunleye said. “You have to identify your triggers … if possible, have plans to avoid them.”
Possible triggers can include specific situations that bother you, but they can also be as simple as being around family or friends.
“It might be reminders of things that should’ve been, maybe the first time you are celebrating holidays without your loved ones,” Ogunleye said.
He suggested consistency and self care as important ways to stay happy and healthy in the colder months and fight off seasonal mood changes.
Foti said finding a strong support system can also be very impactful, as they can provide steady help that makes the transition from being at school to being at home that much easier.
“Clinically, if we’re going to flip that around … how can we get those things back in place,” Foti said. ” How can we adapt your schedule to make sure that there are a normal amount of pleasurable activities (and) a normal amount of social contact?”
While dealing with mental health issues, seasonal or not, it is important to understand that clinical depression and other conditions are not the same as typical mood changes, like sadness.
“Sometimes, when we’re speaking colloquially, these things get conflated a bit,” Foti said. “Depression is not sadness. To feel sad is just a part of the human experience.”
No matter what the feelings are defined as, there are plenty of resources available in West Lafayette and on a national level to support those who need them.
“The 988 number is a (national) crisis hotline number” Ogunleye said. “Text or call that number if you need help.”
