To say the seasons changed in an instant feels apt this year. Leaving work on Wednesday, we emerged into a balmy summer night. Much to everyone’s surprise — and, for some, dismay — we needed run the defrost mechanism on full blast in our cars Thursday morning.

It’s a fairly even split of summer and fall lovers here in the newsroom. Much like sporting events and politics, one side is always a bit more unhappy than the other when the tables turn. While the brisk mornings and leaf burning can give rise to joy in some, seasonal depression starts in full swing for others.

In an article, Cone Health classifies this phenomenon as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and defines it as a form of depression that has a seasonal pattern, which can start in fall and last until spring. Much like a stubborn houseplant, lack of sunlight and changes in sleep patterns can actually have a distressing impact on our bodies.

The symptoms largely resemble what we view as “traditional” presentations of depression: Feelings of sadness or depressed mood, loss of interest and energy, or changes in appetite and sleep. Cone recommends steps we can take to raise the spirits as winter draws near, such as:

– Exercising

– Maintaining a proper diet

– Keeping social connections

– Emotional practices, such as journaling

The big one, however, is simple: focus on the positive.

The seasons will always change; no use dwelling on it. Focusing on things you like about this time of year can actually make more of a difference than anything else. It could be anticipation for Halloween or that giant buffet of food coming in November, but that excitement can have a huge impact on your mood in the face of these shorter days.

However, if severe symptoms persist despite your efforts, talk therapy and a light medication regimen prescribed by a doctor also can help.

Grab those scarves and maybe something pumpkin-flavored, because fall has officially arrived.

–CM