Banish the winter blues
Posted on 14 January 2024
This time of year can be difficult. The NHS estimates that the winter blues, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), affects around two million people in the UK - so you’re not alone.
Tips for beating winter depression
1. Get some daylight
It’s thought that the winter blues can be caused by your body’s reaction to a lack of daylight - so go outside, especially at midday when light levels are at their highest, and sit by a window when you’re indoors. Explore campus - visit campus landmarks, view art on campus, walk or cycle the solar system, and check out the campus tree trail.
2. Get up and about
Exercise has been shown to improve mood so now is the time to take up a new sport or activity - or consider walking instead of taking the bus. Find University of York Students' Union sports and societies. Take advantage of the York Sport Semester 2 student membership offer!
3. Get warm
Being cold can make you depressed. Study on campus - the Library provides blankets and you can heat up your own food and get hot water too in the Library student kitchen on floor 1 of the Fairhurst building. Wear warm clothes, eat hot food and drink that coffee!
4. Eat healthily
What you eat affects your mood. Try to resist sugary cravings and include more fruit and veg in your diet. You could also take vitamin D supplements.
5. Talk to someone
If you’re struggling, ask for help. See our help and support page for the wide range of people you can contact, including your college support team. Remember that TalkCampus is available 24/7.
If you find your low mood affects your ability to live a normal life, contact your doctor.