From time changes to dreary, cold weather, seasonal depression is a common wintertime struggle, occurring for most people who have symptoms due to a lack of warmth and sunshine.

The American Academy of Family Physicians claim that around 4-6% of people in the United States may suffer from seasonal depression while also estimating around 10-20% of children and teens may experience mild symptoms.

It is not unknown that the music one listens to can affect their mood., When listening to happy upbeat music, it is more likely that moods will improve, the same concept applies to music and seasonal depression.

Listening to music that one listens to in the summer during winter can have a huge reduction of winter blues;, this is because it tricks the brain into associating with warm nice weather despite the cold dry weather outside.

“I feel like it would just be to kind of distract your mind from what’s going on. And it’s, like, a nice little escape,” said freshman Elaine Rife.

Not only can music help people cope with seasonal depression, music also plays an important role in helping people through hard times despite the weather outside.

Music is an outlet for the majority of people. Whether that is making or listening to music, music can be a good stress reliever while also increasing productivity and mood.

“I think it’s very emotional and…it calms my mind,” said freshman Sarah Chapman.

Research suggests music helps regulate emotions and reduce stress levels just as much as commonly used coping strategies, and sometimes more available.

According to the Brain Injury Group, “The positive effects and benefits are well-documented and should bring comfort to those suffering from SAD that help is available and music therapy does work to help improve mood, help relax, reduce anxiety and enhance an overall sense of wellbeing.”

Sophomore Jaedyn Smithson doesn’t need the research to turn to music.

“Music will always be there,” Smithson said. “You can go to [music] if you need it.”