Now it’s 2019 and we are all still in the fervor of our renewed spirit, or for some, have entered the post-holiday depression cycle. Seasonal depression is a real occurrence because when one is depressed, the seasons both within and around us just seem to roll over into a funk we just cannot get out of. The days seem to drag on longer, waking up is just as hard as walking to class or work, and tomorrow just seems to be too far away. To those “some” in that funk right now, I want to share some things with you. Next time you look around and feel that this feeling is only enveloping your life, just know you are not alone. This season, as much as it gives us hope for the future, gives the capacity for our doubts of ourselves and our present state to take root. It only takes a single negative feeling to catch up in a depressive loop, but it also takes a single moment to change the tide of our mood and sense of self. Maybe instead of being wrapped up in what you have to do, reflect on how much you have done. Maybe every morning just say out loud to yourself “Today will be a great day”.  This is a new year right, so why not make an intentional change in the emotions that dictate your mood for the day.

Now I cannot say all this and neglect the reality of the season and its effect on us, but I can contest and hope to spark in your mind the mentality that can be manifested in the midst of this gloomy weather. As this time often shifts our focus to what is lacking around us or within us, I implore you to – in those moments of thought – think of a dream, any dream will do actually, no matter how small. 

Now think about the happiness you accomplishing that dream will bring you. Now think about that happiness and who else will bask in your happiness. Now beyond that will be your own mental journey, but remember, there’s no rule that says you have to wait till it’s all put together to be that happy. I shared that little mental exercise to really illustrate the power you have to withstand and push through depression whether it be seasonal or day to day. 

Finally, we often time do not discuss depression within our community and I want to express that to anyone reading this that feels in that dark place alone,  just know that the seasons do change and we are all together to see the light of that new day together.