GoUni's 5 tips to cope with cold weather blues...☃️⛄️
It's November, and yes, the weather is becoming cold here in the UK. Thai students like us are definitely not used to this sort of extreme frigid conditions. As you may seem excited at first when seeing snow, the winter drawbacks are unquestionably harsh.
During the winter, nights are longer and days are shorter. In addition to shivering, many people and students are suffering from the symptom called, Seasonal affective disorder or "SAD" which is prevalent during the winter season. People who are affected by this symptom might feel lonely, uninspired or homesick. This symptom could be very harmful to yourself and also your studies. So better prepare yourself in order to tackle this foreseen condition that may or may not happen to you!
What is SAD?
As the name goes, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern. It is usually perceived as a "winter depression" because the symptoms are more apparent and tend to be more severe during the winter.
However, this symptom isn't proved to be a long-lasting condition. SAD often improves and disappears in the spring and summer, although it may return each autumn and winter in a repetitive pattern.
SAD Symptoms:
- a persistent low mood
- a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
- irritability
- feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
- feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day
- sleeping for longer than normal and finding it hard to get up in the morning
- craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
How severe is this symptom?
For some people, these symptoms can be very serious and have a significant impact on their day-to-day activities.
Is there anyway to cope with this?
Yes, there is! As a student, there are numerous ways to battle with this horrible condition.
Here is the list to what you can to do make this upcoming winter a smooth ride:
1.Hang out with your friends
Friends are very important when you have a symptom of depression, whether it is your friends from the same, or different nationalities. For instance, you can invite them to your place, cook dinner or watch a nice film together. Make a horrid winter become a lovely and cosy one!
2. Change your mindset
Bare in mind that winter is only temporary. It is just a season that will last for only 3-4 months and it will eventually go away. Remember that you are here to study, so please keep your head positive and think ahead.
3. Set a goal of something you will do for yourself when the weather is less brutal, such as going on a trip.
This is the perfect way to be optimistic about life by knowing that something good is about to happen in the near future.
4. Why wait? Do something special for yourself now.
Everyone should remember that friends might not be able to hang around with you all the time because of the differences in schedule. But you can find activities that can be independently done. You can also find hobbies, such as reading a nice novel, writing blogs/diaries. Just to keep you occupied.
5. If you can't beat it, embrace it.
Make use of the cold, get and be active. Try a new winter sport, or go for a ski or a skate. Cities around the UK usually arrange cute and interesting events throughout winter, so this should be a good opportunities for you to explore real winter in Europe. Remember to get yourself a nice and warm jacket. That is very crucial!!!
