As September ends and October begins, the leaves fall and change colors, marking the start of festive activities like Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Then, a fresh start comes with the New Year in January. However, there’s an elephant in the room called seasonal depression.

The shift in weather brings cloudy, rainy, chilly, windy, and overall cold and nasty days. This often leads to sickness, dry skin, and constant tiredness. With it getting dark so early, it can feel like there’s never enough time to get things done. Add the pressure of midterms and finals, and suddenly, you’re stressed the f*ck out, caught in the fall funk. But you MUST fight back. Here are some tips to help you stay as far away from feeling down this season!

Keeping Up With Your Health

To avoid getting sick, ensure your body gets the fuel it needs. Since you probably won’t see much sunlight, get vitamin D from sources like orange juice, fish, or a daily supplement.

Another simple but effective tip: Wash your hands! Every time you leave a place, make sure to wash them. After all, you never know what others or surfaces may carry.

Exercise is also key. Working out 3-5 times a week keeps your body active and reduces health risks. It boosts physical health and improves mental health by helping you set and achieve goals that make you feel good about yourself. 

Jadyn Pilgrim, a public relations major at Howard University, details her personal health care regimen, which prioritizes maintaining a balanced and proactive approach to wellness. She believes that staying healthy isn't just about quick fixes but cultivating daily habits that protect both her body and mind. Whether it's managing stress through mindfulness, incorporating nutrient-rich foods into her diet, or taking time to rest, Pilgrim recognizes that small, consistent choices lead to long-term benefits.

“Take my vitamins, drink lots of water, wash my hands constantly, and wear the right clothes,” described Pilgrim.

Making Self-Care a Priority

Self-care is essential for maintaining peace of mind. Heavy on the self because this is all about you. Self-care can take many forms. Natural remedies like herbal teas and essential oils help with relaxation, while holistic practices like yoga and Pilates strengthen both body and mind. Prioritizing skincare and grooming, such as face masks, haircuts, and nail care, or updating your shower routine with a new scrub and moisturizer boosts confidence and self-love. 

Dressing in cute weather-appropriate outfits can also lift your mood. We all know the most famous saying from Deion Sanders, stating, “if you look good, you feel good!” 

Journaling helps with reflection, goal-setting, stress management, and healing. Reading wellness books nurtures a positive mindset, while spirituality and religious practices provide grounding and inner peace. Whether spending time alone or connecting spiritually, find what works for you to stay balanced and relaxed as the seasons change.

Hanging Out With Loved Ones

This season comes with holidays! Prioritize hanging out with friends, family, or your partner—anyone who makes you feel loved. Plan fun activities like visiting haunted houses in the fall or viewing Christmas lights in the winter. Throw holiday parties or simply chill at home with people who bring you joy. Strengthening these relationships not only warms your heart but also turns the cold weather into a positive by creating cozy, memorable experiences. There are so many ways to make the season feel special.

Music Therapist and Music Therapy Professor Lora Robinson further confirms this advice, highlighting how essential social interaction is for emotional well-being during the colder months. She suggests that engaging in meaningful social activities can have a profound impact on mental health, reducing feelings of loneliness and fostering a sense of connection. Whether through shared experiences or simply spending time with loved ones, being around those who make you feel seen and valued can significantly boost your mood.

“Surround yourself with things that reflect the season that you’re most joyful in; keep your socialization and not isolation,” said Professor Robinson.

Enjoy the New Season!

Incorporating these practices into your daily or weekly routine will guarantee you better peace of mind while handling your business.