Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that is related to the changes in the seasons. Seasonal Affective Disorder begins and ends at roughly the same time every year. Symptoms frequently start in autumn and continue into the winter months. Seasonal Affective Disorder can also extend into the spring or early summer. During this time you may feel as though your energy has been sapped or you may feel moody.
Treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder can include therapy and medication. Don’t brush off the yearly feeling of “feeling down”, as you may have SAD. Take the step and consult a psychologist to determine if you have this disorder.
Symptoms
In many cases, Seasonal Affective Disorder appears during the late autumn or early winter, while others may have the symptoms into spring and early summer.
Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder may include
• Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day
• Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Having low energy or having problems with sleeping
• Changes in your appetite or weight
• Feeling sluggish or agitated
• Having difficulty concentrating
• Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty. Having frequent thoughts of death or suicide
Changes in a season may also impact people who have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. These changes could precipitate either a symptom of depression, mania, or hypomania (a less intense form of mania).
If you think you may have Seasonal Affective Disorder, Depression, or Mania, contact Laurian Ward and she will be able to assist you in obtaining an accurate diagnosis so that a treatment plan can be compiled.
