Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression that typically peaks in the winter months, impacting up to 15 per cent of Canadians during their lifetime. We spoke with Ottawa psychologist Dr. Marna Zinatelli on what the illness is and how it can be treated and managed.
“It’s the stuff (Canadians) think is normal that is hard for us. You can get resources for the big things, but no one is around to tell us how the recycling system works or what long johns are … I think that is where the school has been a big help.”—Ajit Maheswari, international student in software engineering.
Nicknamed wintertime blues or seasonal depression, and defined as a mood disorder where one exhibits depressive symptoms in the winter, SAD is frequently triggered this time of year—as the dark cold mornings get to many of us.
It’s imperative that we take the time to check in with ourselves and monitor our moods. If you feel that mood changes are affecting your success in academics, relationships, or elsewhere, don’t be afraid to seek support.
Maybe it’s this reckless eagerness for warm weather that’s the reason why the dreaded March cold and flu season exists, but by the end of the month most Gee-Gees are asking: Is it over yet?
