As daylight savings time comes to an end, our clocks turn back and while the extra hour of sleep the next morning is great, losing an hour of sunlight can be very detrimental to an individuals mental health. Many individuals suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or as some say "seasonal depression" which is defined as a mood disorder that is characterized by symptoms that occur at the same time each year, usually during the darker, shorter days of fall and winter. While this only may last for a few months out of the year, it may have a serious impact on how a person functions and feels on a daily basis. Some symptoms may include an increased appetite, difficulty focusing, over-sleeping, weight gain, and feelings of sadness and irritability.

It is very important to be proactive during this time, especially if you are more likely to become depressed during the winter months. Coping strategies include: 

- Maintaining healthy eating habits

- Daily exercise, or any type of extracurricular activity

- During the morning hours, going outside and taking a walk or going for a run may be beneficial to a person's mental health.

-Keep a calendar or a journal of appointments, daily chores, or reminders to maintain mental wellness.