Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University's podcast "Enlighten U" begins the new year by addressing loneliness and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) among college students. The National Institute of Mental Health describes SAD as “a type of depression characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about four to five months out of the year.” According to the American Psychiatric Association, around 5% of adults in the U.S. are affected by SAD, particularly those living in northern regions where shorter days and reduced sunlight occur during winter.

A study conducted by Active Minds involving over 1,000 college students revealed that nearly two-thirds reported feelings of loneliness. Additionally, these students were found to be more than four times as likely to experience severe psychological stress.

Bella Cannon, an EMU senior majoring in public relations, contributed a personal blog post on loneliness that caught the attention of the podcast team. In this episode, she discusses her experiences with loneliness and emphasizes the importance of being open to making new friends. “A lot of people tend to stick to themselves in the college setting,” Cannon stated. “Taking those moments to be open is one way to signal to someone you’re open to a conversation.”

Assistant professor Aesha Mustafa from EMU’s Department of Leadership and Counseling offers insights into SAD and how social media can impact feelings of loneliness. She suggests daily activities like engaging in winter sports or holiday preparations as ways to combat the "winter blues."

Cannon concludes with advice for listeners who may feel down during winter: “You’re not the only one who feels the way that you do.”

Future episodes will explore topics such as life as a first-generation student, campus life adjustment, and body insecurities.

For more information or topic submissions for "Enlighten U," contact Lolita Cummings at lcummin2@emich.edu or Melissa Thrasher at mthrashe@emich.edu.