While many people feel a lack of energy and diminished mood during the winter months, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is something more serious. Receiving mental health services for symptoms of SAD can improve your outlook and ensure the “winter blues” don’t have a larger impact on your life and well-being. 

What Is SAD?

Fewer hours of sunlight are available during the fall and winter months and researchers theorize that decreased sunlight can have an impact on the body’s biological clock.

Diminished sunlight is also thought to have an effect on brain chemicals that regulate mood and emotion. This includes serotonin, which is associated with good feelings, and melatonin, which regulates the sleep cycle. 

What Symptoms Does It Cause?

Symptoms of SAD are similar to those associated with depression, but will only appear during the winter months. Typical effects include fatigue or low energy, feeling depressed most days, problems concentrating, a decrease or increase in appetite, agitation, hopelessness, and having a lack of interest in hobbies and activities.

SAD can also cause sleep issues, with many people getting more sleep than necessary when the seasons change. 

How Can It Be Treated?

If you suspect you suffer from SAD, a mental health services provider can help you find the right therapeutic approach. You may be treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication, such as antidepressants.

There is another method of treating SAD that is less common; this is known as light therapy or phototherapy. Patients are asked to sit in front of a lightbox, which recreates the natural light that is lacking throughout fall and winter.

With eleven locations spread throughout Arkansas, Families, Inc. Counseling Services can help people struggling with SAD and other issues. Our clinic has provided comprehensive mental health services for the past 19 years using both proven therapeutic techniques as well as innovative counseling solutions. We offer individual and group therapy, couples counseling, evaluations, psychiatric services, and behavioral therapy. Schedule a consultation today by calling (877) 595-8869. You can also visit our website to learn more about the services we provide.