Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder, ironically referred to in shorthand as SAD, is more than just the simple winter blues. As temperatures drop, the sun is out less hours of the day, and we retreat indoors, it is possible to see changes in your self relating to depression. These symptoms differ slightly from a traditional diagnosis of a depressive disorder since they are specifically triggered by the weather and season as opposed to some other known or unknown cause.
Using this information, you can more perfectly tailor your self care and treatment of these symptoms to feel better and reduce symptoms of SAD. If you find yourself experiencing things like feeling down but still capable of taking care of yourself and others, some trouble sleeping, reduced energy that does not remove the ability to keep up with your household chores or work, then you can consider these symptoms mild. You might try things such as increasing your time in the sunlight during the day, spending time with loved ones when safe and possible, and monitoring your diet for a balanced intake of portions and nutrients.
If you find yourself having the symptoms and they get worse it would be a good idea to speak with a licensed therapist to work through these symptoms lasting longer than two weeks. If you find yourself experiencing feelings and symptoms of social withdrawal, oversleeping to the point where it impedes your life, and craving foods that do not give you a nutrient dense diet, these are issues to explore with a professional.
A therapist may recommend different types of therapy including but not limited to medication treatment or psychotherapy (talk therapy). At Calm Seas we specialize in many different kinds of talk therapy and evidence-based practices. We have a wide variety of clinicians with varied backgrounds and skills to help you face the challenges that seasonal affective disorder can bring. This is not something you need to experience alone or suffer through without help.
