As days begin to feel shorter and skies get gloomier, one thing is inevitable for many high school students: depleted incentive, making it increasingly difficult to get through a typical school day. We don’t realize it in the moment, but sunlight makes a huge impact on our mental health.
When August came to an end, I grew excited for the autumn season that lay ahead. The beautiful golden leaves, warm clothing, rain and fall festivities held a spot in the back of my mind that I longed for during dry Oregon summers. I learned time and time again that romanticizing this period of life does not help to avoid the impending future.
I came to a realization this summer: listening to sad music did make me feel sad. Putting on my feel-good playlists genuinely made a difference in how happy I felt during the summertime. My fall playlist consists of somber, indie music that usually ends with me reevaluating all kinds of things in my life. Although it’s tempting, these life-questioning songs don’t always have the best effect on one’s mindset. Yes, it is nice to have a moment while watching the rain fall outside your window with some peaceful music playing in the background. However, when you find yourself lying on your bedroom floor, unmotivated to do anything else, you know it’s gone too far. What I’m trying to say is listen to your sad music, but mix in some songs that you can dance to, as well! Don’t let the misery consume you.
I find that the times I am at my highest are when I’m doing activities with my friends. Find some time in your busy schedule to do something you love with people you love. The key word here is do. We all know you could both spend hours on your phones mindlessly scrolling without saying a word to each other. What’s the fun in that? Taking the time to put down your devices and find something to do together will make you feel so much better.
Like I said, I have fallen victim to feeling down during the months of dreary days, and even doing these things doesn’t always help. The best you can do is remind yourself that it is all temporary. To the lucky individuals who don’t experience seasonal depression: check on your friends!
With all this being said, if you ever start to feel discouraged this rainy season, just know that the sun will come out again.
