Why SADness is No Joke

It is a record-cold February in 'Cuse, so it's safe to say everyone is just about done with winter. Trudging through snow and enduring 30 mph winds to the face is isn't anyone's cup of tea, and some people are really affected by the cold weather. In fact, there is a medical diagnosis for the general moodiness that winter brings: Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.

SAD is not just an overdramatic acronym. Recognized across the country, it stems from being stuck inside, generally un-sunny weather, and the bitter attitude that comes from bundling up every freaking time you need to go out.

Symptoms of SAD are much like depression, with general moodiness, irritability, and a consistent lack of energy, which are all also symptoms of being stir-crazy.

While it is easy to be dubious about disorder, SAD is extremely common in the United States — 10 to 20 percent of Americans experience it! It should be taken seriously, as what can begin as annoyance with the snow piling up around your dorm can lead to major depression, which in turn requires real medical treatment. As one of the snowiest cities in the country, Syracuse certainly has its fair share of cases.

According to the livingSU website, the university recommends staying active to combat the feelings of laziness, dissatisfaction, and irritability. Though it may be hard to get yourself out of your dorm and into the cold, remember a couple of things:

1. Everyone is going through the same thing. Though some may have a higher tolerance for the cold than others (looking at you, L.A. kids) everyone is experiencing the same -20 wind chill.

2. Winter can actually be kinda fun. You can make cool structures out of snow. Or go sledding down Crouse hill, as dangerous as it looks. You also always have a go-to Insta of snow blanketing Hendricks Chapel. See? Winter can be exciting!

3. Spring is right around the corner. Just remember as you slip up the icy Dome steps for the ten thousandth time that the snow will melt eventually. Maybe in a week, maybe in a month. But eventually, one day, you can bring the shorts back and we will live to see the day when “sun’s out buns out” applies to Syracuse students.

Art by Adham Elsharkawi