SELECT YOUR LANGUAGE

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons.  SAD usually begins and ends at about the same time every year. If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months; you notice a difference in your energy level, lack of interest in doing things, as well as mood swings. These symptoms often resolve during the spring and summer months. 

​

Treatment for SAD may include light therapy (phototherapy), psychotherapy and medications (anti-depressants). SAD is a real feeling that affects your emotional and mental state.  Take action to keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year,  by pushing yourself to get out of the house, take a walk, go to the park, go to outings, engage in doing things that you enjoy and things that makes you laugh.

​

People who have bipolar disorder are at an increased risk of experiencing seasonal affective disorder. In some people with bipolar disorder, episodes of mania may be linked to a specific season. For example, spring and summer can bring on symptoms of mania or a less intense form of mania (hypomania), anxiety, agitation, and irritability. They may also experience depression during the fall and winter months.

​

It's normal to have some days when you feel down. But, if you feel down for a prolonged period of time and you can't get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, see your health care provider. This is especially important if your sleep patterns and appetite have changed, you turn to alcohol or other unhealthy behaviors for comfort or relaxation, or you feel hopeless or think about suicide.

​

If you have thoughts of suicide or depression send a text message to 988 or call 1-800-273-8255. 

​

Source: MayoClinic

​

By Dietra Myers