Around 64 million people in the U.S. are affected by varying forms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.), more commonly known as seasonal depression.

Depression often gets put on the backburner as a mindset disease; however, it is a serious condition caused by chemical imbalances in the brain, which causes you to act and feel in abnormal ways.

For those struggling with S.A.D., these imbalances are often triggered by the decrease in access to sunlight, especially that which occurs during the winter and early spring months.

While seasonal depression can be a very touchy subject, there are ways of treating the symptoms that don’t involve taking medications.

Here are my top 5 ways to preserve your mental health and stability during the gloomy winter days:

1. Write it Down.

Pay attention to your feelings, and more importantly when you are feeling at your lowest. Note what triggers you the most so you can better understand how to avoid and manage similar conflicts.

2. Workout. -- Pursue a Method of De-Stress.

Running on the treadmill isn't for everyone, but keeping your body moving actually works to increase the release of chemicals that your body is missing out on most. Even workouts such as: yoga, meditation, walking, and weight lifting all have similar beneficial elements on the brain.

3. Set Up an Adequate Sleep Schedule

College doesn't always allow for us to go to bed at the same time every night; however, it is best to avoid staying up past midnight. Also, be sure that you get a proper amount of sleep to allow your brain to refuel from the day before. Learn your body and what quantity of sleep works best for you; sometimes the full 8 hours isn’t optimum for everyone.

4. Music

I find that listening to peaceful music helps to lift my spirits when I'm feeling down. Find an artist that creates a sense of joy within you and make an album to listen to when you are feeling low.

5. Practice Gratitude, Even When You're Not Grateful

Having a mindset focused on gratitude can really help to change your outlook throughout the day. Next time a circumstance doesn't go your way, think of it as a factor that prevented a possible stressors from entering into your life. Optimism doesn’t come easy to everyone, but forcing yourself to see the bigger picture helps you to understand that there is more to your situation than what you are experiencing at this moment.

Never be afraid to reach out for help if you feel that your symptoms are more than you can handle. Even if you do not wish to take medication, there are still people out there that can help you cope with the things you are struggling with.