The winter brings much joy with the holiday season bringing families and loved ones closer. But, not for everyone. In all reality, the winter months are more challenging for many. This is due to a type of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Or, a lesser form of the condition, the Winter Blues. Chronic depression is always a serious issue, and should be addressed with professional treatment. For those dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder or the Winter Blues, help is always available.

Determining the Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder is classified as Major Depression, just experienced in the winter months. Those diagnosed usually start experiencing symptoms of depression around the end of fall. But, symptoms reduce or may even cease altogether by late spring. Some of the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder may include:

• Feelings of hopelessness and/or uselessness
• Insomnia
• Apathy for past passions or activities
• Mood swings
• Avoidance of friends/family
• Low energy levels
• Overeating and weight gain
• Suicidal thoughts
• Inability to concentrate
• Irritation

Who is at Risk for Seasonal Affective Disorder

While the cause of SAD is unknown, examining statistics can help us to determine who may be at a higher risk for the condition. Those who are at a higher risk for experiencing SAD include:

• People with family diagnosed with SAD
• Women
• Those who live in colder climates, farther from the equator
• Young adults
• Those diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, General Anxiety, or Major Depression

Methods to Treating Seasonal Affective Disorder

According to a study performed by the National Institutes on Health, six percent of American adults have SAD, and another fourteen percent have the Winter Blues. So, if you find yourself experiencing any of the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder or chronic sadness during the winter months, you’re not alone. And, there is help out there for you. So, don’t give up hope. And, consider treatments including:

Vitamin D Supplements: It’s believed that one of the reasons depression is commonly noticed during winter time is a lack of sunlight, which provides our bodies with a source of vitamin D. Vitamin D is known for its ability to help the brain release dopamine and serotonin, which are natural mood managing chemicals which can help to reduce symptoms of depression. Some individuals who have been diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder find that utilizing vitamin D supplements can help treat the condition when combined with other therapies.

Psychotherapy: A specific type of psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, is known to help individuals diagnosed with SAD to adopt healthier thought patterns, seek activities which can help with mood management, and methods to coping with the winter months. This therapy involves talk therapy with an experienced therapist and various assigning various activities outside of sessions to track and measure achievements.

Medication: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) responsible for the regulation of prescription pharmaceuticals has determined that serotonin reuptake inhibitors are an effective medical option for the treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder. These medications can be prescribed by a physician or psychotherapist. Additionally, they should be monitored for correct dosage and effectiveness.

Get Help Paying for Medications for Seasonal Affective Disorder

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of SAD, talk to your physician, psychiatrist, or psychotherapist today about a prescription medication which may help you. If you already have a prescription or are considering asking your doctor for one, Advocate My Meds may be able to help discount your prescriptions through our prescription assistance program. To find out more about this service, if you’re qualified, and how it works, please give us a call at 877-596-1604 or visit our website.