What is Seasonal Depression? How Therapy Can Help
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
The final months of the year can present a variety of emotions. When the temperatures drop, and tree leaves change color, it signals the start of Fall and Winter.
For some, the yearly seasonal change is welcomed with joy and excitement. However, others experience daytime fatigue, lack of drive and energy, develop different eating habits, and a general sense of depression this time of year.
This is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)— a type of depression that occurs in a particular season, most likely the winter. Seasonal Affective Disorder is often linked to reduced exposure to sunlight during the shorter days during the Winter and Fall months. Then, when seasons change again, symptoms and emotions will likely decrease. Sometimes, people can experience SAD during the Summer or warmer parts of the year.
According to the American Psychiatry Association, about 5% of adults in the U.S. experience SAD. Younger people, women, and those living farther away from the equator are more likely to experience SAD symptoms.
Common SAD Symptoms
Seasonal Affective Disorder is more than just the “winter blues.” SAD is accompanied by many symptoms and typical
Feeling sad, depression
Weight gain and changes in appetite
Loss of energy or feeling more tired despite a good amount of sleep
Increase in activities like pacing, handwringing, inability to sit still, or slowed movements or speech
Feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty
Thoughts of death or suicide
When to speak to your therapist and standard treatment?
The most important thing to remember is to listen to your body. If you’re noticing that you’re feeling more emotionally down or sleepier than usual and the symptoms persist for more than two weeks, reach out to your therapist or health care provider and inform them.
Common Treatments:
Talk Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help you manage negative thought patterns and develop tools to improve your mental health.
Light Therapy: Exposure to a lightbox that safely mimics natural sunlight.
Medication: Antidepressants can be prescribed in moderate to severe cases to regulate your mood and emotions.
Lifestyle Changes: Increasing time outdoors, regular exercise, and adjusting your sleep pattern can help alleviate SAD symptoms.
Understanding your body and seeking support early is the best way to navigate SAD and prepare for the brighter days ahead.
If you need to talk to someone this holiday season, click here to book a consultation with our Path to Growth Counseling team.
About Path to Growth Counseling:
Path to Growth Counseling is an online counseling practice serving Texas, Nevada, and California. We conduct all sessions virtually – through a secure online platform. This helps reduce some of the barriers to therapy like transportation and scheduling. Our clients love this aspect of our practice. All you need is a reliable internet connection, a quiet confidential space, and openness. Pets are always welcome.
