Is Winter Depression a Real Thing?

Everyone can admit that it is difficult to adjust to seasonal change of fall to winter.  It gets dark earlier and you have to bundle up to stay warm.  But some people have a tougher time than others.  This is especially true for people that have depression, but why?

What Is It Called When You Have Depression in the Winter?

When you get depressed or your existing depression is exacerbated during seasonal changes, it is called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  Experts say up to 9 million people in the United States experience this disorder.

If you have depression or you think you may experience SAD, you should keep an eye out for symptoms such as:

• Having difficulty sleeping
• Avoiding social occasions
• Finding it difficult to push yourself to do basically anything
• Overeating
• Drinking too much
• Self-medicating
• Sleeping too much
• The mood being bad almost all day every day
• Avoiding activities you normally like
• Struggling to focus
• Constant fatigue
• Suicidal thoughts
• Paranoia
• Feeling left out

This list is not all-inclusive, but these are the types of symptoms you want to look out for when winter hits.

SAD Quick Facts

• Young people and women are more likely to suffer from SAD than men and older people.
• As previously stated, up to 9 million Americans suffer from SAD and up to 14% of Americans get “winter blues”.
• The further north you live, the more likely you are to have SAD or “winter blues”.

If You Are Experiencing Sad, Try This

Many people have no idea what to do when they experience Seasonal Affective Disorder.  Some people that experience SAD do not have depression during other seasons.  There are some things that can help alleviate SADly.

• Get sunlight when it is available. Because it is limited during the winter, it is a good idea to try to take a walk outside during your lunch break.  Natural light triggers the release of serotonin.

• It is impossible to overstate the value of exercise as it relates to mental health. It is a natural way to release stress and anxiety.  Exercise triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin.

• Sticking to a healthy diet helps you maintain energy levels throughout the day.

If Those Things Do Not Work

For some people, diet, exercise, and sunlight are not enough to combat SAD.  If you are one of those people, it may be a good idea to talk to a professional.  Cognitive-behavioral therapy has shown to be more beneficial than light therapy in the long run.

Another option is to take medication.  While this method of handling SAD and depression is often stigmatized and misunderstood by the general public, when handled properly by a professional, it can be life-changing.  The first step to understanding the best options for you is to talk to a professional.  Never self-medicate or use prescriptions off label or off prescription.

It can be very difficult to notice the symptoms of SAD and “winter blues”.  We are not always aware of our feelings.  If someone notices your symptoms, try to open to their observations.  Ultimately, take care of yourself this winter!

You may also like:

Basic parameters to focus on for good Mental Health Care!