Depression is real and it's a huge problem. According to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, "Major depressive disorder affects approximately 14.8 million American adults, or about 6.7 percent of the U.S. population age 18 and older, in a given year." There are many different kinds of depression such as persistent depressive disorder, perinatal depression, psychotic depression, seasonal affective disorder, and bipolar disorder.

As we approach winter it is important to be aware of seasonal affective disorder which is: a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons. Most common symptoms are feeling out of energy, feeling moody or down, lack of concentration, changes in sleep or appetite, and a loss of pleasure for once loved hobbies. These symptoms start in the fall and proceed into winter. There isn't a specific known case for SAD but we do know, "the reduction in sunlight in winter can throw your biological clock out of whack and reduce levels of serotonin (a brain chemical that regulates your mood) and melatonin (a chemical which regulates sleep and mood)."

It’s important to listen to your body and what it is trying to tell you. There’s a difference between being busy and feeling like what's the point anymore. The good news is there are treatments that can help. Some options are medication, psychotherapy, and light therapy. If you are experiencing any type of depression it can be helpful to be exposed to more sunlight, go outside, exercise regularly, avoid drugs and alcohol, getting good sleep, and participating in relaxing activities. Being aware and educated is the most important thing you can do for yourself. Creating a healthier lifestyle for yourself is always a good idea. But you shouldn’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t feel better right away. Don’t belittle how you feel, chalking it up to the January blues and waiting for spring to come around. Don’t be afraid to ask for help it is a sign of strength, it will move you towards the person you want to be. If you overcome this imagine how that will carry into other parts of your life.

Millions of people everyday wake up to nothing feeling sad and alone. The Beatles knew what they were talking about, “all you need is love.” All anyone wants are to feel loved, it makes us feel connected, and gives us a purpose. If that is taken away people are left feeling hopeless and useless. Most people who feel this way would never openly talk about it but in other ways are screaming out for help, hoping someone will hear them and listen.

It’s important to know the signs such as scars from cutting or burning, spending a lot of time alone, change in attitude, impulsiveness, unpredictability, broken bones, having sharp objects, not showing their arms or legs, etc. It can be hard to talk to someone who has depression but it’s much harder to lose them. Letting them know that you are there and that you care can change their whole world. As humans we need to feel hope to keep going. Be the hope someone needs to feel.