Winter’s in Northern Utah can feel very long and for some, the winter months bring with it feelings of depression. Josh Barson, a Behavioral Health Therapist at the Bear River Health Department, talks about depression and offers suggestions on how to treat and cope with Seasonal Affective Disorder. For more information about the behavioral health services offered at the Bear River Health Department click here.
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and How to Get Help
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many people notice a shift in their mood. For some, this seasonal change can bring more than just the winter blues—it can lead to a form of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If you or someone you know struggles with SAD, understanding the symptoms and seeking the right support can make a significant difference.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly occurring during the fall and winter months when daylight hours decrease. While the exact cause is not fully understood, researchers believe that reduced exposure to sunlight can disrupt our body’s internal clock, impact serotonin levels, and contribute to feelings of sadness or depression.
Signs and Symptoms of SAD
SAD shares many symptoms with major depression, but they typically appear and resolve around the same time each year. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Low energy and fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleep patterns (oversleeping or insomnia)
- Changes in appetite, often craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
- Feeling sluggish or agitated
- Withdrawal from social activities
If these symptoms interfere with daily life for an extended period, it may be time to seek professional help.
How to Cope with SAD
While experiencing SAD can be challenging, there are effective ways to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being:
- Increase Light Exposure: Spending time outside during daylight hours and using light therapy (a special lamp that mimics natural sunlight) can help regulate mood.
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity boosts serotonin levels and improves overall mental health.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of protein and healthy fats can help stabilize mood and energy levels.
- Establish a Routine: Keeping a consistent sleep schedule and daily structure can counteract the disruption SAD causes.
- Seek Support: Talking with a counselor or therapist can provide strategies for coping with SAD and managing stress.
Help is Available at Bear River Health Department
If you or a loved one is struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder, you don’t have to go through it alone. Bear River Health Department offers Behavioral Health Services, including counseling and support for those experiencing SAD and other mental health concerns. Our professional team is here to help you navigate the challenges of seasonal depression and find effective ways to improve your mental well-being.
Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse—reach out today. Contact Bear River Health Department to learn more about our Behavioral Health Services and schedule an appointment.
You Deserve to Feel Your Best
Seasonal Affective Disorder is real, but with the right support and coping strategies, you can manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you’re experiencing SAD, take the first step toward feeling better by reaching out for help. Bear River Health Department is here for you every season of the year.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 435-792-6500.