Late December and Early January are usually the holiday season for college students which are supposed to be stress-free and filled with joy and cheer but for some winter break can be a surprisingly difficult time. These breaks can be an isolating experience, which may expose some students to environments that may trigger depression, anxiety, or loneliness.
A first-year student of Chitkara School of Mass Communication, Kanwal Preet Singh when asked about the same stated that, "We were doing something every day and now there’s nothing but this daunting feeling of purposeless-ness in the air that makes getting out of bed in the mornings very difficult for me”
But why does this happen? Here are some of the key factors contributing to these ‘holiday blues’:
Disruption of Routine: The student’s life during an academic semester is well planned and the sudden shift to an unstructured, unplanned life can be disturbing. A lack of a routine and social interactions can make a student feel unproductive.
Social Isolation: The contrast between a vibrant campus and a quiet home can be a lot to process for some, a typical Indian family may not always be able to provide students with the support they need at this time.
Social Media: Seeing your classmates having fun and enjoying their lives on social media is like peeking through a window at someone else’s life where everything seems to be perfect. Meanwhile, your break might not be as exciting or fulfilling as you hoped it would be. Feeling an ache of jealousy or FOMO (fear of missing out) at this moment is a common experience.
Seasonal Affective Disorder: S.A.D. commonly known as ‘Seasonal Depression’ is related to the change of seasons, the shift from fall to winter. People with S.A.D. might experience symptoms like low energy, a change in their sleep schedule or a general feeling of sadness. The reduced exposure to sunlight during the short winter days is often credited as the main cause, leading to a significant drop in one’s serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that affects mood.
So how can we navigate the holiday blues?
Plan your days: Making a list of things you want to do with your time is a great way to fill up your schedule and tackle boredom.
Stay Social: Reach out to your friends and loved ones, even virtually.
Pursue Hobbies: Engaging in activities which you enjoy and bring you a sense of accomplishment is a great way to combat holiday blues.
Prioritise yourself: Focusing on your fitness, getting sufficient sleep, exercising, spending time in nature or even listening to music might assist.
Seek Help: If matters do not appear to get better and the sensation of sadness lingers, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Share your feelings with a trusted friend, a member of the family, or a mental health professional.
Remember, holiday blues are temporary and you’re not alone. Many of your peers are experiencing exactly what you’re going through right now, and by understanding what it is and practising some self-love and care, you can make your winter breaks a time of rest and joy.