Beloit College has just passed fall break, and winter is slowly creeping upon us. With the seasons changing, we enter the holiday season. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s come along, with family time, presents, and stress. Another thing that becomes stronger with the shorten days is depression.

Many people have depression or clinical depression, and everyone’s situation is different. Here are a few of my remedies to help you get through a midwest winter.

1. Take Vitamin D: A big part of depression is caused by not getting enough vitamin D, because in the winter the days are shorter and people get less time in the sun. Many people have a vitamin C deficiency in the winter. To help your body out, taking a vitamin a day may improve your mood a little.
2. Sunlight: Another way to get vitamin D is by sitting in front of a sun light. It’s basically a powerful light, like a light box, and you sit in front of it for 15-30 minutes. It tells your mind that your body is getting the needed amount of sunlight, and can lessen the depression.
3. Drink a cup of tea: A warm cup of tea is always nice and soothing on a cold winter day. Other certain herbs like lavender, clary sage, and chamomile are sedatives and can calm depression. Really, any tea will do the trick: pick one of your favorites and curl up in a warm blanket with it.
4. Read a good book: With that hot cup of tea, go ahead and grab a book. It’s always nice to take a break from stresses and go on an adventure. Books can take you anywhere, and your imagination is endless
5. Watch Netflix: If you aren’t much of a book lover, Netflix is always a good substitute. I can always consume season after season of my favorite shows in a sitting. Plus, laying in bed under warm covers while watching your favorite movie or show is always comforting.
6. Write yourself notes: You can either take mental notes or write them down. I personally write down notes to myself of inspirational quotes that really connected with me. I keep them in my desk and whenever I’m feeling down I pull them out and read over them, reminding myself it’s just a bad day, not a bad life.
7. Call/Skype with friends: I know the best pick-me-up is to give my close friends a call or FaceTime them. I can always count on them to be there for me and vice versa. It’s good to have someone in your life who would drop anything to make sure you are okay. That’s what true friends are.
8. Talk to your parents: I know sometimes not everyone wants to tell their parents everything or deal with them at times. On the other hand, being at college away from them it’s OK to call them and let them know you miss them, or tell them if you’re struggling with anything. They only want the best for you and love you unconditionally.
9. Cuddle: Cuddling is probably one of the best remedies; it gives off happy endorphins in your body, and even boosts your immune system. You can cuddle with a pet, your pillow, a friend, or a stuffed animal. Literally anything will work — whatever makes you feel comfortable and happy.
10. Sweets: It’s okay every once in awhile when you’re feeling crummy to give into your sweet tooth. Go ahead and eat a cookie or some cake. My personal favorite was to go out and buy ice cream and gossip with friends and just let off some steam and stress.

Everyone has their own personal tricks to help with when you’re feeling down or dealing with depression. Remember no matter what you try, that there are

many different things to try to lighten up your day. Remember it was just a bad day, not a bad life. Everything will play out in the end; you’re strong enough to work through it. Enjoy today, and soak up the last rays of the sun before fall ends, and enjoy the holidays with the ones you love.