Psych Leadership - A division of Rise Up Academics
From graduation caps to corner offices, the journey is anything but straightforward. The Psych Leadership Podcast blends real-world leadership experience with the science of human behavior to help you navigate work, life, and the space between.
Whether you’re a recent graduate finding your footing or a seasoned professional looking to lead with greater impact, each episode delivers practical strategies grounded in psychology — from mastering first impressions and building resilience to influencing without authority and shaping your long-term career path.
Host Luke UpChurch, a business leader and psychology graduate, draws from 28+ years in organizational leadership, process improvement, and talent strategy to bring you insights that work in the real world.
Because leadership isn’t just for the people with the title — it’s a mindset, a skillset, and a toolkit you can start using today.
Would these types of insights help your team grow? Consider booking a consultation with Psych Leadership!
Psych Leadership - A division of Rise Up Academics
Battling the Winter Blues: Recognizing and Managing Seasonal Depression
The colder months can bring more than just frosty weather—they can also bring a wave of low energy, sadness, and disconnection for many people. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we explore the psychological phenomenon of the “winter blues,” diving deep into how to recognize signs of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and depression in yourself and others. With us, please welcome special guest, Donnie Parrish, a friend and colleague with personal experience with all of the topics we are discussing today.
We’ll discuss the psychological and biological causes of winter-related mood changes, from reduced daylight to disrupted routines. More importantly, we’ll provide actionable strategies to combat these challenges, including self-care practices, fostering social connections, and supporting team members or loved ones through tough times.
If you or someone you know struggles with staying motivated and emotionally balanced during winter, this episode offers compassionate insights and practical tools to help you weather the storm.
Need help? https://988lifeline.org/
References:
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Preventing suicide: Facts, figures, and prevention strategies. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov
Joiner, T. E. (2005). Why people die by suicide. Harvard University Press.
Rosenthal, N. E., Sack, D. A., Gillin, J. C., et al. (1984). Seasonal affective disorder: A description of the syndrome and preliminary findings with light therapy. Archives of General Psychiatry, 41(1), 72–80. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.1984.01790120076010
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Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at psychLeadership@riseupacademics.org
