As the clocks change and temperatures drop, many of us notice a shift in our mood. Dark mornings, grey afternoons and fewer hours of daylight can leave us feeling less energetic, less motivated and more inclined to stay indoors. While these feelings are often described as the “autumn blues”, they can become more challenging for some people as winter approaches.
Seasonal depression, often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is more than simply disliking cold weather. It is a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, most commonly occurring during autumn and winter when daylight hours become shorter. People affected may experience low mood, tiredness, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns and a loss of interest in activities they would usually enjoy. However, it is important to remember that not everyone who feels less energetic or motivated during the darker months is experiencing depression. Many people notice a temporary dip in mood as the seasons change, often known as the “autumn blues”.
It is perfectly normal to have an occasional bad day, or even a difficult week. Feeling stressed during exam season, missing home, or lacking motivation for a short period does not necessarily mean you are developing depression. The key difference is often the duration and impact of those feelings. If low mood persists for several weeks, begins to affect your studies, relationships or daily life, or makes it difficult to enjoy things that normally bring happiness, it may be a sign that additional support is needed. Reaching out early, whether to friends, family, university support services or a healthcare professional, can make a significant difference and help prevent a temporary struggle from becoming a more serious problem.
For many of our international students, adjusting to a Leipzig winter can be particularly challenging. Students arriving from countries with year-round sunshine, warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours may find the sudden shift difficult. Short days, grey skies and colder weather can affect daily routines, limit time spent outdoors and increase feelings of homesickness. Combined with the pressures of university life, adapting to a new culture and being away from family and friends, the darker season can sometimes feel overwhelming. Recognising these challenges is an important first step in taking care of your wellbeing.
To help you beat the seasonal slump, we asked students and staff members at Lancaster University Leipzig to share their favourite tips for staying motivated, lifting their mood and making the most of the autumn and winter months. From planning a summer holiday to stargazing under clear winter skies, here are some practical ideas that might help you embrace the season and keep the winter blues at bay.
With the nights getting longer, why not make the most of them by stargazing? Grab a warm blanket and a cup of tea, find a spot away from city lights, and find as many stars and constellations as you can. Instead of associating the darkness with gloomy feelings, you might discover a sense of wonder as you look out into the vast universe.
The best idea during this season is to find the proper clothes, put on cycling shoes, and go on a cycling journey in Leipzig! The city has wonderful places: There are lost of parks, a wide variety of scenic roads you can take, and different styles of architecture to see, , such as the Monument of the Battle of the Nations.
I’ve noticed that when it gets dark earlier I tend to feel sleepier and less productive, therefore I try to get as much daylight as possible. I try to let as much natural light into my room as possible, especially when I’m studying, because it helps me feel more motivated and productive. Plus: a colourful flower bouquet in the room lifts the mood so much!
When the days get shorter and greyer, it’s easy to stay in and isolate yourself but that is exactly when we need people the most. Try making a regular weekly plan with your friends, it can be something simple, like a board game night or a movie evening just to not spend too much time alone locked in your room.
A cold autumn evening is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a good book. As it gets dark outside, settling down with an interesting story creates a relaxing atmosphere. Getting lost in its pages is a great way to unwind after a long day. It’s a simple but enjoyable way to make the colder months more pleasant.
Spend time with friends and do something fun together. Whether it’s playing pool, going bowling, or trying something new, getting out of the house can make a big difference. A little friendly competition always makes things more fun! Even when the weather isn’t great, it’s nice to have something to look forward to and take your mind off things.
Start planning your next summer holiday, even if it’s still months away. Looking into destinations, creating a travel wishlist, or mapping out your dream trip can give you something exciting to look forward to. A little daydreaming about sunny days and new adventures can be a great mood booster when the weather turns grey.
Bring your favourite scent into your room, whether through a candle, essential oils, or a room fragrance. A familiar and comforting aroma can instantly create a cosier atmosphere and lift your mood. And if you’d like to create your own signature scent, join one of our upcoming Feel Good Friday candle-making session!
While self-care strategies can make a real difference, it is important to remember that you do not have to face mental health challenges alone. Students at Lancaster University Leipzig have access to a dedicated Psychological Counsellor, who provides confidential support for a wide range of concerns, including depression, stress, anxiety, homesickness, low mood, academic pressure and personal difficulties. Whether you are struggling with the winter months, adapting to life in a new country, or simply feeling overwhelmed, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Talking to someone early can help you develop healthy coping strategies and prevent temporary challenges from becoming more serious problems.
Appointments can be booked easily via the dedicated booking link available to all students on the Info Hub, ensuring support is only a few clicks away when needed.
