- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Kalamazoo College Students Struggle with Winter Blues
Experts advise finding healthy coping strategies during long stretches of cold and darkness
Jan. 28, 2026 at 10:15pm
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
As the Midwest continues to experience below-freezing temperatures and heavy snow, Kalamazoo College students are reporting increased struggles with mental health and motivation. Experts say the lack of sunlight and Vitamin D during the winter months can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression. Students and professionals recommend staying active, spending time outdoors when possible, and reaching out for support as effective ways to manage the winter blues.
Why it matters
The long, dark winters in Michigan can take a significant toll on mental health, especially for college students who may be experiencing their first harsh Midwest winter. Recognizing and addressing seasonal depression is crucial for student wellbeing and academic success.
The details
Many Kalamazoo College students, including freshman Vann and Cameron, have reported feeling less motivated, more depressed, and generally struggling with their mental health due to the cold, gray weather. Experts like Dr. Ariana Hoet of The Kids Mental Health Foundation say this aligns with common symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is linked to lack of sunlight and Vitamin D. To combat the winter blues, Hoet recommends staying active, spending time outdoors when possible, and maintaining social connections, even when motivation is low.
- Kalamazoo College students have been experiencing these mental health challenges in recent weeks as the region has seen below-freezing temperatures and heavy snow.
The players
Vann
A Kalamazoo College freshman who says the dark and cold weather has notably impacted their mental health, making them less motivated to attend classes.
Cameron
A Kalamazoo College freshman who says the winter weather has been a significant challenge, impacting their mental health and overall wellbeing.
Dr. Ariana Hoet
The executive clinical director with The Kids Mental Health Foundation, who has provided recommendations for managing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
What they’re saying
“It definitely makes me a lot less motivated to get up and go to classes. At night, around 5 p.m., that's when I start to spiral a bit.”
— Vann, Kalamazoo College freshman
“It was really impacting like my mental health and just like the things going on with myself.”
— Cameron, Kalamazoo College freshman
“Instead of waiting to feel good and motivated, you do it, and then the mood will follow.”
— Dr. Ariana Hoet, Executive clinical director, The Kids Mental Health Foundation
What’s next
Kalamazoo College and Western Michigan University have added resources like light therapy lamps and mental health support to help students manage the winter months. Community mental health organizations in the Kalamazoo area, such as Gryphon Place Crisis Line and Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, also offer assistance.
The takeaway
The long, dark winters in Michigan can have a significant impact on mental health, especially for college students experiencing their first harsh Midwest winter. By staying active, spending time outdoors, and reaching out for support, students can find healthy ways to cope with the winter blues and maintain their wellbeing during the colder months.
