Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs each year at the same time, usually starting in fall or winter and ending in spring or early summer; between 10 and 20 percent of the U.S. population may suffer from symptoms associated with the disorder. This mood disorder is often attributed to the lack of light during the colder months of the year. In addition, during the shorter, colder days of winter, people spend more time in their homes, leading to less socialization and increased isolation. This shift in routine can enhance the negative effects of seasonal changes and put individuals at a higher risk for SAD. Symptoms of SAD are similar to those of other types of depression.
It is common for people with seasonal affective disorder to go undiagnosed. People who are unaware that they have SAD may just think they have “winter blues.” Seasonal Affective Disorder goes beyond the "down" feelings that many people experience during the colder months, though.
In some cases, when depression is mild, it can improve without the help of counseling or medication. Exercise, socializing with supportive people, and doing activities that you enjoy are all very helpful in lifting depression. Above all, be gentle with yourself; when you are depressed, it is very important to set realistic goals and break tasks down into manageable steps. Understand that you are going through a difficult time and shouldn’t expect as much from yourself as you usually would. Don’t isolate yourself because you don’t want to be a burden to others.
If you think that you may have some form of depression, it is important to do something about it. Click here to take online assessments for depression, bipolar disorder, and more. If you would like an in-person consultation, call me at 443-458-4221, email me at jennifer@beallpastoralcounseling.com, or make an appointment online.