Department of Health and Social Services Library

Mental Health Monday: Seasonal Depression

(Photo credit: Lake Behavioral Hospital)

As the weather gets colder and the days get shorter, many people start to feel the loss of sunshine and long summer days. For lots of people, cloudy weather means dark days ahead and, these moods can affect everyday routines and affects how a person thinks and feels. According to the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association, seasonal affective disorder (or "seasonal depression") is a subcategory of major depressive disorder that is following a seasonal pattern. It is more than "the winter blues" but a persistent sadness, loss of interest, and maladaptive behaviors.

The best way to fight against seasonal affective symptoms is to be proactive and prepared. As winter comes, learn to recognize the signs and make the time to practice self-care. 
 

Signs of Seasonal Depression (National Institute of Mental Health)
- Persistent sad/anxious/empty mood most of the day or all day for at least two weeks
- Oversleeping
- Overeating, with particular craving for carbohydrates
- Social withdrawal (feeling like "hibernating")
- Frustration over little things
 

Treating Seasonal Depression* (Mayo Clinic, National Institute of Mental Health)
*talk with your doctor/health care provider to see if treatment is appropriate for you
- Get yourself screened by a health care professional
- Light box therapy
- Talk therapy
- Antidepressants
- Vitamin D
- Yoga or tai chi
- Journaling
- Meditation
 

RECOMMENDED READ FROM DHSS LIBRARY:

Practicing Mindfulness by Matthew Sockolov

ISBN: 9781641521710

Publication Date: 2018-09-11

Calm the mind and begin the path to finding peace with these simple mindfulness meditations Mindfulness is an evidence-based method for reducing stress and anxiety, enhancing resilience, and maintaining mental well-being. Even short meditations can turn a bad day around, ground us in the present moment, and help us approach life with gratitude and kindness. This mindfulness book was created by the founder of One Mind Dharma. He developed these 75 essential exercises to offer practical guidance for anyone who wants to realize the benefits of being more mindful. This inviting mindfulness book for adults includes- Evidence-based advice-Find expert advice on dealing with distorted or wandering thoughts and how to handle mental blocks. Meditations that grow with your confidence-Early meditations in Practicing Mindfulness take just 5 minutes and are highly accessible. As they progress, exercises grow with the reader, building on previous lessons to develop a transformative mindfulness practice. Meditations for specific situations-With meditations designed for specific situations or emotions, even experienced practitioners will have a continuing resource for mindfulness at every moment. Begin a journey of peace and patience with Practicing Mindfulness- 75 Essential Meditations to Reduce Stress, Improve Mental Health, and Find Peace in the Everyday.