If you have the winter blues or experience depression that comes and goes, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder. This is a common mental health condition that is treatable with the help of licensed professionals. It’s imperative to seek out help as soon as you notice a shift in your mood during specific seasons throughout the year. Here is some basic information about seasonal affective disorder. 

What exactly is this disorder? 

Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that is triggered by a certain season throughout the year. The most common type of this disorder begins in late fall or early winter, as the weather gets cooler and the days darker; but some may experience the opposite and may begin to feel the effects in the spring or summer. Depression from this disorder can last all day, every day during the low season, and comes with lethargy, sleeping problems, irritability, disinterest in hobbies and entertainment, changes in appetite, feelings of hopelessness, and sometimes, thoughts of death. Those with bipolar disorder may also experience seasonal mania opposite the seasonal depression.

How can I treat it? 

The most important step in getting treatment for SAD is to inform a doctor or mental health professional of your symptoms. They can help you access the resources to treat your condition. This may include counseling and medication, as well as changes in your daily routine to help address the changes in your environment that trigger the disorder. Your mental health specialist may even suggest a change in your diet or add exercise to your routine to improve your mindset and lifestyle. You can rest assured that your exact treatment regimen will be tailored to your needs. Although you may need to try several types of treatment to find what works best for you, trained professionals will guide you through every step of the way. 

If you are experiencing seasonal affective disorder or any other form of depression, contact Comprehensive Behavioral Health in Staunton, VA. Their experienced staff provides a range of mental health support services to help you get back to you. They treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and eating disorders. To make an appointment, call them today at (540) 688-2646 or visit their website to read more about the facility.