For many, January is marked by an increase in stress and burnout. While the academic demands and “new year new me” energy can be daunting, the season’s colder weather can also exacerbate feelings of isolation, fatigue and anxiety.
Although we’ve touched on seasonal depression in past issues, it’s crucial to consider how the intersection of academic rigor and the challenges of shorter daylight hours can impact students’ mental well-being. Whether or not you’re directly affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD), the combination of finals stress and environmental shifts can make the season particularly difficult to navigate.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a branch of depression. SAD occurs during certain seasons throughout the year, most often being autumn and winter. It is believed that shorter days with less daylight trigger a chemical change in the brain, resulting in symptoms synonymous with depression.
The pressure to perform well at the start of a new term can lead to heightened stress and anxiety, which in turn can impact eating habits, energy levels and overall mental health.
According to a study done by Concordia University, the stress of exams can affect your body in three ways: Physically, mentally and behaviourally. Physical symptoms can lead to headaches, difficulty sleeping and an increase in anxiety and nausea.
Mental signs can vary from difficulty concentrating, blanking on content while studying and feelings of fear and helplessness. Behavioural indications include nail biting, smoking and/or drinking and isolating oneself.
To manage these symptoms, students often resort to unhealthy coping strategies, including excessive caffeine consumption, substance abuse, lack of eating and sleep deprivation in dire attempts to manage their stress.
For me, one of the most effective ways to avoid feeling overwhelmed is to establish a consistent daily routine. A well-structured schedule fosters a sense of stability amidst the chaos of midterms and finals.
Additionally, making time to get outside during daylight hours can greatly improve your mood and energy levels. Exposure to natural sunlight helps regulate sleep patterns and can alleviate the feelings of sadness often linked to SAD.
Thoroughly understanding the distinctive challenges faced by students during finals season, specifically those struggling with seasonal depression, is pivotal.
By recognizing the severe impact of academic pressure on mental health, students can take proactive steps to seek support, implement self-care strategies and foster a more balanced approach to their education.
Despite best efforts, there may be times when stress becomes overwhelming or when feelings of anxiety, sadness or exhaustion persist. If you find that your mental health is being significantly impacted, it’s important to reach out for support.
Laurier offers mental health resources at the Student Wellness Centre. Speaking to a trusted professor, academic advisor or mental health professional can provide you with additional coping strategies and emotional support during the winter blues.
The start of the winter term can be a stressful and demanding time, but with the right strategies in place, it’s possible to manage both academic pressure and your mental health.
By implementing practical coping techniques, students can navigate this high-pressure period without sacrificing their well-being.
Remember, mental health is just as crucial to academic success as studying. Taking care of yourself is key to thriving during the beginning of the term and beyond.
Graphic by Kash Patel.
