The great and powerful Taylor Swift once said, “Gray November; I’ve been down since July. Motion capture; put me in a bad light.” The lyrics, which are from her and Bon Iver’s song “Evermore,” tell the story of one’s inner conflict during the later months of a year as the singers think back to all the failures and mistakes each of them made during the months before.

Later in the track, Swift sings, “Hey December, guess I’m feeling unmoored. Can’t remember what I used to fight for.” Bon Iver also adds, “Can’t not think of all the cost, and the things that will be lost. Oh, can we just get a pause? To be certain we’ll be tall again; whether weather be the frost, or the violence of the dog days.”

Both Swift and Iver’s lyrics emphasize the feeling of loneliness, grief and depression, specifically during the late fall and winter seasons. In other words, famous people can get sad too. 

The official definition for seasonal depression is: A type of depression that occurs during certain seasons, usually fall and winter, and is characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern. 

For me, it starts with weather changes and worsens as the year wraps up. Then, it continues into the new year until the weather begins to warm up again. I find myself not wanting to get out of bed, go to class, do … anything, really. It usually makes life feel very gray and sad. It makes you enjoy things you love less. It makes you more stressed on top of finals. 

Basically, it sucks, as you may assume or know. But not to fret, friends, I’ve found some good coping mechanisms that help me warm up those winter blues. 

Take a hike

Science has found physical activity can help boost serotonin in those little noggins of ours.

I’ve heard people say jogging also works, but for me, a nice walk makes me feel better. A brisk walk around your neighborhood, campus or park should do the job. Whether or not you’re a gym person or a runner, these would be great options, but I’m a Midwestern white dude who can’t lift a dumbbell to save his life, so a little hike it is!

I love the old saying, “Take a hike,” because I love a good hike down a wooded trail while listening to Hozier. It makes me feel like a hobbit in The Shire. Speaking of music…

Boogie down

Now, I don’t know about you, but my Spotify wrapped this year says a lot about me. Like, what do you mean Taylor Swift is my No. 1 artist? That speaks volumes about the kind of music choices I have on most of my playlists. 

Anyway, as I said earlier, Miss Swift has an entire album dedicated to the entire experience of seasonal depression. She also has a lot of beautiful, lyrical masterpieces that tell stories of love, friendship and being true to yourself that really get the vibe going. 

I won’t sit here and drill you on what songs are best to make you feel better, because that’s totally up to you! I personally have a compiled list of music that really boosts my serotonin, which is perfect for times like this.

Pick songs that mean something to you. Songs that aren’t Phoebe-Bridgers-style heartbreak songs but songs with a funky beat and happy lyrics. Ones that take you back to the golden days of childhood or songs that reconnect you with your loved ones. Any song that makes you happy, listen to it! 

Have a good laugh

It’s true when people say laughter is the best medicine.

Just recently, I watched my favorite stand-up special with John Mulaney, and it gave me such a good laugh that I forgot about all the stressors and sadness I was dealing with at the time. If comedians aren’t your thing, get out of that bed you’re laying in and hang out with your funniest friends! It really adds a nice spice to your day to get a good laugh out. 

Be with your loved ones

Family is important, and they care about you.

Whether it’s your chosen or found families, go hang out with them! They can offer some heart-to-hearts you can’t find while rotting in bed all day.

Loved ones don’t just include family, though. Text your friends. They want to be there for you and may just be going through the same things as you. You aren’t alone in this. Always remember that! 

Take some ‘me’ time

This time of the year is usually very busy. Why don’t you take some time out of your day to sit down and relax with a blanket, a cup of tea or coffee and your favorite pair of lazy sweatpants. I usually like to watch my favorite movies and shows, read books or comics or even take a nice nap! You deserve it.

Remember, you have to put yourself first in times like these. 

Talk to a professional

It’s never too late to start therapy.

Sometimes having a trained professional to chat with is easier than talking to people you know and trust, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. There are always resources you can reach out to. Whether that be a therapist, a helpline or whatever, someone is always going to be there for you. Don’t be afraid to reach out! Down below are some good resources you can try out: 

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text: 988 Chat: 988lifeline.org

Find a therapist online – BetterHelp  

Have a good cry

Lastly, just let those tears out! Honestly, all we need sometimes is just to cry.

If you feel your eyes welling up, let it out. This is typically a last resort, but I’ve found all I need at certain times is to just have a good cry. Seriously, if you need to let those emotions out, go ahead and do it. There’s absolutely no shame in crying, no matter who you are. Just make sure you’re comfortable and have something to drink so you don’t dehydrate yourself.

I promise, this works sometimes. It feels good to cry when you really need it. 

I hope you find this article when you really need it. You are loved, you are important and you aren’t alone. As the end of the semester approaches, we’re all flooded with piles of work to do and feelings of self doubt come with it, but we’re so close! You can do it! Take some time to consider my advice and see what works for you.

In case no one’s told you lately, I’m so proud of you. 

Nicholas Keller is a columnist. Contact him at [email protected].