There are a couple of things that I refuse to wish upon anyone. One of those things is any form of depression, whether it be a constant occurrence or seasonal depression like I have. It's a horrific feeling that remains to be understood only by the people who go through it. I can't say that I expect everyone to understand, but it is so more than just mere sadness. I've dealt with seasonal depression for nearly half of my life and though the intensity of the feeling seems to diminish ever so slightly as years pass, it is still something that hits me at some point without fail. I'm used to it now, but that doesn't mean that it hurts me any less. To all of you out there who go through depression, I want you to know that I hear you, I see you, and I value you. Don't ever let someone tell you that your feelings are invalid.

I was planning to write an article on a completely different topic for this week, but lately I've been feeling this familiar sadness and heaviness in my chest. So far, this winter hasn't been terrible. I've been doing well with remaining levelheaded and uplifted by all of my growth and success that I've been experiencing. The weather is getting colder though, and that is enough to allow "the feeling" to come back to me. It doesn't take much. Do I think that I'll ever combat depression permanently? It's a nice thought, but if I had to be completely honest, no. I think it'll remain as a small part of my life, but that's okay. It's terrible that depression can be such an excellent teacher for it made me stronger and wiser throughout the years. No matter how bad I end up feeling, I know that I've gotten through before and that I'll continue to do so over and over again. Fighting back can seem like an uphill battle, I understand. That's why I wanted to write this article. For all of you who struggle with this, or with any other stresses in life, I wanted to give you a list of ways that will allow yourself to be distracted by the feeling for a little while.

Remember this: there is always sunshine behind the clouds.

1) Read a book.

David Sedaris' books have been life savers to me for a few years. He's an amazing, witty, author who isn't afraid to say anything that is on his mind. Though his books are comical, they have an element of truth that is undeniable. Me Talk Pretty One Day is one of my favorite books by him. I laugh out loud every time I read it. You can read any book that you like though. It'll help you escape you own reality for a while.

2) Do something creative.

It can be drawing, painting, writing, playing an instrument, or anything else that comes to your mind. Once I had read that working with your hands can actually help focus your mind because you'll be so occupied with what your hands are doing. I agree with that completely. Whenever I write or paint, I don't have time to think about much other than the task at hand. This is a great way of blocking out any negative thoughts that may come with your depression.

3) Watch a movie of your liking.

I tend to watch Disney movies whenever I need a pick-me-up. Hercules and Emperor's New Groove are my favorites. Not only do they allow me to relive my childhood, they're also incredibly funny, which is always a plus when I'm feeling sad.

4) Go for a walk.

Getting fresh air can do wonders for the mind. Jogging helps a lot too because you allow yourself to let off more assertive energy that can build up if you begin to feel anxious. I always listen to music whenever I go for a stroll which helps as well.

5) Write down how you feel.

This is something that I've done since the first year that I experienced this seasonal funk. It's a great way of getting things off of your chest when you don't feel like talking to anyone. I always advise against holding in emotions, for that can make things much worse. Keeping a little journal does wonders, even if you never go back and re-read what you wrote.

6) Talk to someone you trust.

Sometimes it can be difficult to express how you feel. That's why it's important to talk to someone that you know will listen. Whether it's a family member, friend, teacher, or therapist, don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

7) Turn on bright lights.

This is something that really helps with my seasonal depression. Besides the cold, another trigger for my sadness is when it gets dark early. Turning on bright lights not only gives me the illusion that it's still day time, it makes the overall space feel more lively as well.

8) Surround yourself with positive vibes.

This is self explanatory. Step away from people who make you feel guilty about the way that you feel. Allow yourself to be in an environment that will bring you happiness.

9) Give yourself something to look forward to.

The simplest things can really put your mind at ease. Planning things that will make you excited will give you something else to think about and combat the sad thoughts.

10) Cry.

Like I said, holding things in is never good. Cry whenever you need to. Whether you're a man or a woman, you are allowed to shed tears. I don't care what people say. To me, crying is not a form of weakness at all. A good cry could be just the ticket for allowing yourself to feel better.