PITTSBURGH, PA (PTTP) – Seasonal depression is hitting its peak as we are in the middle of
the winter season. PA is ranked 9th for most likely to be ranked for the Winter Blues. With only a
little over ten hours of sunshine each day, students are suffering. The Stress Free Zone at the
University of Pittsburgh helps students dealing with seasonal depression and other stressors.
The Stress Free Zone, located on the third floor of the William Pitt Union, is a place where
students are able to come and rest their minds. Hallie Stotsky, coordinator of the Stress Free
Zone, describes it as a place “to take a purposeful break.” They really focus on calming the mind
and being present in the moment. Hallie focuses on the idea that they are “here to help students
help themselves.” Many students have come back and said how much it has helped them and
now they want to give back and volunteer their time at the place that helped them immensely.
With the lack of sunlight during these winter months, the Stress Free Zone also focuses on ways
to help students struggling with seasonal depression. In addition to their normal classes and
relaxation methods, they have a daylight lamp that is used to help these students who may be
having a hard time during these dark, cold, winter months. They also have paired with other
groups and the counseling center on campus to provide programs and activities for students that
allow them to connect with nature, even during the winter months.
The Stress Free Zone is open to all students whenever they need it. They can walk in at any point
during their hours and take the much needed time for themselves without judgment so they can
“be their best selves.” As Hallie says, “self care is the least selfish thing that you can do.”
For more information on the University of Pittsburgh’s Stress Free Zone, you can visit
https://www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/student-health-services/stress-free-zone