The Change of Seasons Can Bring on Depression - Knowing the Signs and Treatment Options Can Help
By Yolande Clark-Jackson
It’s so hard to say goodbye to summer. For many of us it means saying goodbye to the official season to travel, spend more time with family and enjoy afternoons at the beach. But for people who struggle to find the bright side of things, the return of fall and winter also means a return to inner darkness and feelings of deep sadness. If you find yourself falling into a funk around the same time every year, you may be experiencing symptoms of seasonal depression.
Is seasonal depression an actual thing?
It’s hard to believe the change of seasons can make someone depressed, but according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) those who suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) experience a pattern of depression each year during the change of seasons.
Symptoms are more common in winter due to the shorter days and lack of sunshine, but it can also happen in summer. It all depends on the pattern. Symptoms of this disorder generally begin and end around the same time of year. Some folx begin to feel unusually sad in fall and winter and begin oversleeping and experience a loss of energy while others experience depressive symptoms during spring and summer where they are sleeping and eating less.
Who does seasonal depression affect:
You may be wondering “Who is most susceptible to SAD?” According to the Mental Health America’s website, the onset of seasonal depression generally happens in climates further from the equator and starts with people ages 20-30. But it’s important to note that any pattern of depression can develop as a result of trauma, genetics, or hormonal changes. And those who suffer from bi-polar disorder, psychosis, or who have been diagnosed with depression in the past are at higher risk of developing SAD.
Women are also four times more likely to experience SAD than men, but men are also less likely to self-report symptoms of depression which impacts statistics. And due to barriers to access and additional stress factors in Black and Brown communities, depressive and personality disorders often go undiagnosed and untreated which makes us especially vulnerable to various forms of depressive and anxiety disorders.
Can you self diagnose seasonal depression?
People who are sad before the change of seasons for the first time or infrequently may not suffer from SAD, but those who experience a pattern of depression for a consecutive two years or more should reach out to a licensed therapist for consultation to discuss treatment options.
Signs and Symptoms of SAD:
Recognizing the symptoms of depression can help you determine if you need to reach out to a professional. The Mayo Clinic provides a list of common symptoms.
Here are 8 signs that you may be suffering from SAD:
Feeling restless, sad or down most of the day, nearly every day
Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
Having low energy and feeling sluggish
Having problems with sleeping too much
Experiencing carbohydrate cravings, overeating and weight gain
Having difficulty concentrating
Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty
Having thoughts of not wanting to live
Treatment Options:
Treating SAD can be done through light therapy, medication, supplements, talk therapy or any combination of things a therapist assesses is most appropriate for a particular client. And if you are feeling depressed, you do not have to face it alone.
How to Seek Help:
If you think you would benefit from the help and support of a professional, reach out to a Ibisanmi Relational Health Therapist. IRH therapists are trained and skilled professionals who provide a holistic approach to helping you achieve mental wellness.
You can be sure you’ll receive culturally affirming guidance suited for your unique situation. If you’re ready to move forward toward breaking the pattern of seasonal depression, book a 15-minute consultation here.
And, be sure to follow on IG at @ibisanmi.relational for mental health check ins and inspirational posts.
