Julia Mills ’22
Today in the 21st century, the idea of seasonal depression is a widely-recognized concept. When the seasons shift, the days get shorter and the temperatures drop. People are more inclined to feel tired and hopeless—especially when winter reaches a boarding school environment, where symptoms are much more noticeable.
Expectedly, many are feeling dejected and melancholy during this cold weather spell. Jack Quagliaroli ‘22 says, “I think the winter has been a bit overwhelming. With COVID and being stuck on campus, seasonal depression really gets to you.” Quagliaroli is not alone in his sentiments; Bob Hollis ‘24 says, “Genuinely, I think I’ve lost all drive to do anything, whether that’s homework or spending time with friends at night. The cold could obviously have something to do with that. A season shouldn’t change my social life, but it seems to.”
The low mood exists not just for residents on campus but for day students, as well. Finn Sipes ‘22, a 4-year day student, says, “When everyone is living on campus, it is so easy to see them missing home and their comfort places in the winter. Day students feel it too. I think a lot of us tend to get lonely in the winter because we don’t get that cozy support of living with all of our friends in the dorm. If anything, it’s worse this year because of COVID.”
Jen Smith P ’23, ‘24, dean of academics, has taken measures to keep her spirits high. “Outdoor time in the sunlight when it is warmest and sunniest and more time spent forming connections with others,” are her go-to mood boosters.
During the days of darkness, the counseling department is a valuable resource for students. Mary Cate Hauenstein, one of Mercersburg’s counselors, says, “Mercersburg is a community of care. As far as my role shifting this term, I am making a concerted effort to extend my work beyond the four walls of my office and work as part of teams to address the mental health needs of our community.” This support has emerged in the form of the “Let’s Talk” sessions sponsored by the counseling staff, depression groups, and therapy lights—physical lights for boosting melatonin and serotonin levels—all direct attempts to combat the effects of seasonal mood swings.
Regardless, students call for changes to the routine and the addition of fun to their schedules—simple ways to boost morale. Finn Sipes recalls times in years past when there were more fun winter activities, such as serving hot chocolate. “I also think a couple of campus movie nights in the Simon would bring everyone together a bit more. What’s cozier than hot drinks and getting together with your friends to watch movies?” says Sipes. Caroline Simpson ‘22 says, “Everything seems very routine: wake up, school, PGA, dinner, homework. I think changing up the routine when you can is super helpful.” Hollis goes so far as to suggest a Head’s Holiday.
All activities and provisions aside, the winter is a difficult time for students and faculty alike. However, Mercersburg’s community has the spring solstice to patiently anticipate, which is already on the horizon. Hauenstein reminds us, “The gift of shorter darker days is that it sends us looking for light. When the sun comes out from behind the clouds, take a moment to feel it on your face and take a breath. Look for light in a smile or an act of kindness.”