From Darkness to Light: Overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder SAD? Fall and winter months are the most common for Seasonal Affective Disorder. According to the APA American Psychiatric Association “About 5 percent of adults in the U.S. experience SAD and it typically lasts about 40 percent of the year. It is more common among women than men”. It is believed that SAD may worsen in fall/winter months due to less sunlight and shorter days.

Usually, SAD is diagnosed when there are significant impairments in one’s life, for example at home, work, family or socially. Moreover, it is important to note that following symptoms of SAD may indicate the need to seek professional help if you notice these symptoms lasting two or more weeks on most days.

·       Increased sleep and daytime drowsiness

·       Loss of interest and pleasure in activities formerly enjoyed

·       Social withdrawal and increased sensitivity to rejection

·       Irritability and anxiety

·       Feelings of guilt and hopelessness

·       Fatigue, or low energy level

·       Decreased sex drive.

·       Decreased ability to focus or concentrate.

·       Trouble thinking clearly.

·       Increased appetite, especially for sweets and carbohydrates

·       Weight gain

·       Physical problems, such as headaches

(According to HopkinsMedicine.org)

Fortunately, there are effective treatments for SAD, can include the following:

·       Exposure to sunlight. Spending time outside or near a window can help relieve symptoms.

·       Light therapy. If increasing sunlight is not possible, exposure to a special light for a specific amount of time each day may help.

·       Psychotherapy. Cognitive-behavioral or interpersonal therapy helps change the distorted views you may have of yourself and the environment around you. It can help you improve interpersonal relationship skills, and identifying things that cause you stress as well as how to manage them.

·       Antidepressants. These prescription medicines can help correct the chemical imbalance that may lead to SAD (HopkinsMedicine.org)

We have extensive experience with Cognitive-behavioral and interpersonal therapy that can help you overcome SAD this season. We can provide safe place where you can learn to manage and overcome SAD. We can teach you strategies such as restructuring thought and taking helpful actions. Therapy can be the first step towards feeling more like yourself this winter. Contact us we are here to help!

 

Are you struggling with SAD? You're not alone. Our online therapy practice provides compassionate, bilingual care to Adults in California. Let us help you on your journey towards healing and joy. Contact us for your free 15-minute phone consultation today.