Fall has begun, with the days growing shorter, and the weather starting to cool. While the shifting season may have little effect on some individuals, it can bring forth significant changes in others. When mood and mental health worsens at the same time every year, this is known as seasonal depression.
What is Seasonal Depression?
The National Institute of Mental Health defines seasonal depression – or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – as a change in mood and behavior due to the onset of shifting seasons. It is characterized by persistent sadness and other symptoms similar to major depression.
Symptoms of Seasonal Depression
According to the American Psychiatric Association, these are the main symptoms of seasonal depression:
- Oversleeping
- Overeating & increased craving for carbohydrates
- Lack of energy despite increased hours of sleep
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Thoughts of death or suicide**
*If these thoughts are intense or persistent, OR if they include thoughts about wanting to take action to end your life, this is an emergency. Please utilize the nearest hospital or dial the national suicide and crisis line at 988.
Because seasonal depression shares so many symptoms with major depression, it can sometimes be hard to differentiate between the two. The difference between these two mental health challenges is that seasonal depression is short-term and caused by physiological responses due to changes in seasonal cycles. Major depressive disorder is a chronic condition caused by other factors.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, seek care from a medical professional to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment specific to your situation.
Causes of Seasonal Depression
The direct cause of seasonal depression is unknown, but because of the shorter daylight hours associated with the fall and winter seasons, there is less time to absorb sunlight. The body produces Vitamin D and serotonin when exposed to sunlight. These two components are crucial in keeping the body and mind functioning optimally. As a result, a lack of vitamin D intake and serotonin production correlate with those who struggle with seasonal depression.
Treatments for Seasonal Depression
There are a variety of treatment options available for seasonal depression. Each of these forms of treatment focuses on addressing a different aspect of seasonal depression. A combination of treatment methods tends to be used to treat seasonal depression. Because of this, medication management can be a helpful tool in educating you on treatment options and establishing a pattern of care that fits your needs.
Antidepressants
Because seasonal depression is a form of depression, it can be treated using traditional antidepressants like SSRIs. For those who are resistant to traditional antidepressants, alternative options like Spravato can be effective as well.
Talk Therapy
Talk therapy can be a powerful part of treatment as it allows you to talk through struggles in mood changes, behavior patterns, and treatment with a licensed psychiatrist.
Vitamin D Supplements
For those experiencing Vitamin D deficiency, supplements can bring levels back to normal. Before implementing supplements into your treatment plan, discuss your medical needs and medications with a physician. Vitamin D can have negative interactions and affect the efficacy of other medications.
Light Therapy
Light therapy treatment involves several sessions with a lightbox to compensate for the decreased daylight hours of fall and winter without exposing patients to the harmful UV rays associated with sunlight.
Lifestyle Changes
Changes in lifestyle, such as increased physical activity, improved diet, social interaction, and spending more time outside is highly recommended in improving the symptoms associated with seasonal depression.
How to Find Care for Seasonal Depression
A great way to find care for seasonal depression is to seek out a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist’s expertise in mental health treatments, medication, and alternative options allows them to create a treatment plan that is centered on your unique needs.
Ask for recommendations from your physician, family, and friends and contact those clinics to find a psychiatrist that best suits your preferences and situation.
Indiana Advanced Psychiatry is Here to Help You
At Indiana Advanced Psychiatry, we provide authentic and trusted treatment options to those in the Fort Wayne community. We are determined to help you succeed on your mental health journey. If you have questions or would like to book an appointment, give us a call at (260)-888-1378.
If you are located in the Troy or Ann Arbor, MI areas, please visit our partner website to explore treatment options near you.
