Depression and fatigue

In northern countries like ours, reduced light levels in winter can lead to signs of depression. This happens to around 20% of the Canadian population. For a further 2-3%, these symptoms are more pronounced, and are referred to as seasonal depression or seasonal affective disorder.  Interestingly, whether we’re talking about the blues or seasonal depression, scientific studies have shown that, under certain conditions, daily use of a light therapy lamp is an effective treatment for regaining energy, so why not give it a try?

Activism fatigue is affecting more and more students involved in social, environmental or equity and inclusion struggles. Driven by strong values, their actions can come up against rigid structures, a lack of recognition and the slow pace of change, which can lead to discouragement, mental overload and exhaustion. Since campaigning for major change can be a never-ending race, it’s important to recognise the signs of fatigue before they lead to disengagement or loss of motivation.

It is wrongly assumed that burnout is a reality associated only with workers. However, students are also at great risk, as they are exposed to the pressure to excel at a high and sustained level, in addition to a job that is often demanding, poorly paid and with a full and changing timetable. In periods of stress such as exams, the balance is precarious, the time available for study is rarely sufficient and the hours allowed for sleep are reduced. The perfect cocktail for exhaustion!

You can allow yourself to experience a certain level of depression. It’s impossible to be constantly happy, fulfilled, and energetic. Feeling depressed from time to time is normal and healthy.

There’s nothing like a walk outside to air out the brain and compensate for the lack of sunlight. If possible, set up your worktable near a window to take advantage of the natural light.

The less you move, the more you forget how good it feels to move! Don’t feel that you have to run a marathon, just put on your shoes, skates, skis or snowshoes and get outside to stretch your arms and legs.

Artistic creation is an excellent way of expressing your feelings. It’s a way of expressing things that aren’t working and leaving room for other emotions. Sing, paint, draw, play a musical instrument, whatever you enjoy!

Nature is like a free spa for the brain. Breathing in the fresh air, hearing the birds sing and feeling the wind and sun on your skin helps to calm the whirlwind of thoughts, recharge the mental battery and see life with a bit more perspective. Bonus: this type of connection requires no wifi and no password!

Get out of your usual routine for a day or take a break from the screen to do something new. This will break the boredom and stimulate your brain in a new way: novelty has a way of giving you the boost you need to get through a difficult period.