Union College resources for seasonal affective disorder

Recently on campus there have been outbreaks of low mental health quality. With the second semester coming into full swing, some students feel overwhelmed and underprepared. “Yeah, I’ve been sad,” Corey Domeier shared. “I feel like the mental health services aren’t talked about on campus as much as they should be.”

Payton Arnett, another student, didn’t feel it. “I actually feel fine,” he said. “I notice seasonal depression to some degree around campus.” Erin Cramer, a sophomore, noted her concerns with what’s been happening on campus as well. “I’ve felt like stuff’s out of control recently,” she shared. “There’s also only one counselor for 600 students. We have people on campus that should be able to help this.”

The weather and climate in Nebraska could be a contributing factor. With the change in seasons comes seasonal affective disorder caused by the dreary temperatures and low lighting. Another cause for some symptoms may be overstress.The second semester of college brings another wave of projects, papers and tests that are overwhelming for some students. Personal matters and relationships can also contribute to heavy mental stress, compounding on the other symptoms or creating them outright.

Union’s mental health assistance has many avenues. Union College’s lead mental health counselor is Ingrid DeVries, who has a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Doane University. She has an extensive history with the profession and has been working on Union staff since 2021. She can be reached by email, ingrid.devries@ucollege.edu Furthermore, the deans are also available for anyone needing immediate assistance. If you are struggling with mental health of any kind and do not feel comfortable with an avenue through faculty, confide in those close to you.

There are also many methods of outside counseling, such as College View Harmony Health and the Lincoln Wellness Group. Psychology Today or the common platform, BetterHelp are also options. Regardless of what your situation is, do not be afraid to reach out.

By James Smartt