As winter continues to tighten its grip on the days ahead, the reality of several more weeks of bitter cold and dwindling daylight becomes less appealing. It’s a time of year when many individuals struggle with changes in mood, energy levels, and the desire to hibernate until spring. During this time, it is not uncommon for some individuals to question their behavior and desire for social isolation. I readily admit that I am not a proponent of winter, as it necessitates additional heat and pain management for my already aching body, and would be happy to skip the season altogether if possible. For others it signals a time of impending despair and uncertainty regarding emotional stability. If you’ve experienced periods of depression that seem to be more prevalent during seasonal changes, irritability, changes in appetite, or concentration, the cause could be Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that occurs during certain times of the year, primarily winter. Studies suggest that SAD is four times more common in women than men with average onset beginning around age 23. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), symptoms of winter SAD usually begin in October or November and subside in March or April. NAMI reports that while some patients notice a decline as early as August, others remain unaffected until January; however, once the winter months have subsided, it is common for individuals to not feel fully functional until the end of spring. Individuals experiencing depression as a result of SAD may report mild to moderate symptoms, although some cases can be severe. Noticeably important is that children and adolescents can also be affected by SAD, and although SAD is known to be more prevalent during the fall and winter months, relapse can occur in the summer.
According to NAMI, Seasonal Affective Disorder is often misdiagnosed as hypothyroidism, hypoglycemia, infectious mononucleosis, and other viral infections. If you are an individual coping with these or similar symptoms, you may want to consult a mental health professional qualified to diagnose and treat SAD who can help you determine the best course of treatment for you. There are treatments available to assist with SAD, which can range from medication management to light therapy. Other recommended treatments may include talk therapy, outdoor therapy, and social interaction. If you begin to notice that your daily life has become affected, the following resources may assist in educating you about Seasonal Affective Disorder and seeking treatment.
• Dr. Lynn McDaniel, specializing in depression
• Mental Health America of Eastern Missouri: Informational resource
Aline Hanrahan is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in St. Charles and St. Louis Counties. She specializes in individual, child, family, and marriage counseling and has serviced the mental health and public school systems for 20 years. For more info, visit alinehanrahan.com.
