Cold Weather, Warm Hearts

By Quinn Robertson, Heartland Activities Committee

As the nights get longer, the blankets get thicker, and the coffee cups get emptier, many college students find themselves in a less than cheery mood. That familiar slump, maybe you’ve hit it or seen a friend in it, is the so-called “winter blues,” and in some cases it can evolve into the more serious condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). According to the Appalachian State University Counseling and Psychological Services, nearly 25 percent of all college students across the U.S. experience the winter blues. 

When the daylight dwindles, our serotonin levels take a hit, our ability to concentrate wanes, and everyday challenges start feeling heavier than usual. (counseling.appstate.edu)

So what’s the game plan? One big move: get involved.

Why Getting Involved Matters

1. Activity = Light + Movement + Mood Boost

Participating in campus events, club meetings, or group outings means you’re getting out of your room, interacting with people, and yes, moving your body. Movement is one of the recommended strategies for managing the winter blues. 

2. Community = Less Isolation

When you join something, whether it’s a student organization, a social event, or a hobby group, you’re connecting. That “everyone else is out living their best life” feeling softens. And when you feel less alone, your mood often steadies.

3. Passion = Interest + Engagement

One of the signs of winter blues is feelings of sadness and decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities. Being involved gives you opportunities to rediscover or discover what lights you up, even in the shorter days.

4. Planning = Control

The Counseling Center suggests planning ahead: start a journal, pick up a new hobby, or schedule self-care time. Being involved is part of that; you’re actively choosing your time rather than letting the winter slump choose you.

Tips for Making It Work

Start small. Maybe one club meeting this week, one event next week; you don’t need to overload.
Mix it up. Try something social like a game night or movie outing, and something physical like an intramural sport or a hike.
Stick out the awkward. Sometimes the first ten minutes feel weird, but once you’re there, you’re in.
Pair up. Bring a friend to an event; accountability helps.
Notice your wins. Did you laugh? Feel less tired? That’s a good clue you’re moving in the right direction.

Remember: You’re Not Alone

If things feel heavier than just “meh,” reach out. The Counseling Center page notes that if symptoms interfere seriously with school, work, or relationships, they may indicate full SAD, not just the winter blues. 

Looking for somewhere to get plugged in on campus? Here are two go-to links for the Heartland Activities Committee (HAC):
Get Involved: https://heartland.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/hac
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcc.hac/

Counciling services: https://www.heartland.edu/counseling/index.html

Hop in. The snow might fall, the daylight might shrink, but your social calendar doesn’t have to.