When the days get shorter and the clouds grow bigger, many people experience seasonal depression. During this time of year, I see people around me experience the effects of seasonal depression. During the winter season, it can be hard to find motivation. However, taking time for yourself can make getting through this time easier. This list has been created of tips that you can use to prioritize your mental health.
- Get 8 hours of sleep per night. Getting more sleep helps regulate your emotions and behaviors throughout the day. Along with this, it helps with your cognitive skills including attention, learning and memory.
- Take a walk. The fresh air from being outside can have more oxygen go to your brain which increases your serotonin levels.
- Drink water. Increasing your water intake will increase the serotonin your brain makes, increasing your happiness. The brain needs water to function properly, dehydration is linked to impaired cognitive function and memory which will make getting through the school day tougher.
- Do an activity you enjoy. This could be rewatching your favorite movie or hanging out with friends and family.
- Pick up a new hobby. Some examples are knitting, reading, baking or learn a new language.
Self care is something that looks different for everyone, and you have to learn what works best for you. Below, students share how they take time to practice self care.
“For me, I feel like self care is relaxing, taking a shower [and] doing my hair. And binge watching shows. I do that a lot, It’s kind of a problem.”
Kareema Aato (11)
“I really like [to] exercise, take time to move my body, [and it] feels really good for my mental health [to] eat good. During the summer, it’s easier to get outside. [In the winter], I have to stay inside a lot more which is tough, but I also do really like the snow and the cold.”
Andrew Aupperlee (12)
“I take Sunday as a day to chill and spend time with my mom and catch up on homework.”
Alizandra Garza-Ramos (11)
