Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Awareness and Support

As the days grow shorter and colder, many people experience shifts in mood. For some, these changes go beyond a case of the “winter blues” and become a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that affects millions of Americans each year, often triggered by the changing seasons. At Primary Health Care, we’re here to help you manage your mental health with our behavioral health services.

Why It’s Important

Seasonal Affective Disorder can significantly impact daily life, causing feelings of sadness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. While SAD is most common during fall and winter, some people may experience symptoms during spring or summer. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking help early can improve your quality of life and help prevent the condition from worsening.

What to Expect

SAD is a form of depression, and its symptoms include:

• Feeling sad or hopeless.
• Low energy or fatigue.
• Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy.
• Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping.
• Changes in appetite or weight.
• Trouble concentrating or focusing.

While the exact cause of SAD isn’t fully understood, factors like reduced sunlight, disruptions in your biological clock (circadian rhythm), and imbalances in serotonin and melatonin levels may play a role.

Managing SAD

If you think you might have SAD, there are steps you can take to feel better:

• Light Therapy: Using a special light box can help regulate your mood by mimicking natural sunlight.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise can boost your mood and energy levels.
• Counseling or Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective approach for managing SAD.
• Medication: Antidepressants can help some people manage symptoms, especially if started before symptoms begin each season.

PHC Behavioral Health Services

At Primary Health Care, we offer behavioral health services to support you through seasonal changes and beyond. Our providers are here to help you create a personalized care plan, whether it includes therapy, medication, or both. We accept Medicaid, private insurance, and offer a sliding fee scale for those without coverage.

Take Control of Your Mental Health

Seasonal Affective Disorder is manageable with the right care and resources. If you’re feeling the effects of SAD, don’t wait to seek help. Visit any Primary Health Care location to learn more about our behavioral health services and take the first step toward feeling better.

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder.
• American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/seasonal-affective-disorder.
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (n.d.). Seasonal Affective Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder.

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