Photo by Jamie Netzer

As the cold creeps up on us, the days get shorter and it seems like it is only light outside for a few hours. It is no wonder that many MSU students feel a little down in the dumps these days. This is just one of the joys that Michigan brings us each winter, but no worries! I have looked up some info that will help you to fight that fatigue so you can enjoy the holiday season. With exams and stressful holiday events coming up, it’s best to prep yourself.

You might not have seasonal depression, but the most common symptom of winter blues is tiredness. If you suffer from weight gain, excessive eating and sleeping, along with fatigue, you may want to talk to your doctor about seasonal depression treatments. You can never be too cautious, ya know. Seasonal depression is caused by increased levels of melatonin, a hormone secreted in the brain that causes sleepiness. This hormone is secreted more when there is more darkness, and with shorter days and less light, it is common in winter. Other symptoms might include lethargy, irritability and increased cravings for sugary or starchy foods. There are many treatments for seasonal depression such as light therapy and anti depressants but a doctor should make the call.

For those of you with just a mild case of winter blues, here are some solutions:

-Exercise regularly! I know you are probably too tired to hit the treadmill but it will really do you some good. Exercise increases endorphins which make you feel better, plus with all of those yummy holiday treats we all eat, it might not be a bad idea to burn those extra cals! You can always start off slow with a simple walking routine inside the mall while you do your shopping. Plus, living at Chandler Crossings makes working out so easy! It is just steps from your MSU student apartment.

-Like your Mom always says: take your vitamins! It is important to stock up on healthy foods and those Flintstone chewables! (Or a more adult multivitamin) Vitamin C will help you beat those colds and Vitamin B will give you some extra energy, just to name a few.

-Get some sunlight! Although nice days may be few and far in between, but whenever you get a chance to enjoy some sunlight you should do it! Sunlight increases Serotonin (a happy hormone) so the more you can be outside and in the sunlight, the better.

-Be social! Although that might be the last thing you feel like doing, going out with your friends or at least talking to them on the phone can help keep your spirits up and put you in a better mood. Chandler Crossings Apartments offer many resident activities so make sure you check out our calendars for fun times to come.

I hope your Holiday Season is full of joy (and energy)!

-Katelyn Moore