Let's Be Real About Seasonal Depression

Let’s be real.. Most of us love the fall colors, warm meals and sugary treats. But with fall also comes early nights, colder days and… seasonal depression. It comes every year yet some of us continue to experience lower moods, less motivation, and downright boredom. So, what exactly is seasonal depression and what can you do to prevent it?

How to know if you have seasonal depression? Here is a list of symptoms to look out for:

• Seasonal mood changes (typically beginning in fall/winter and ending at the start of spring/summer) noted by increased sadness, hopelessness, lack of motivation, less interest to do enjoyable activities, a sense of worthlessness, and increased feelings of loneliness
• Changes in energy and sleep patterns as noted by a significant decrease in energy and patterns of oversleeping
• Behavior changes that may appear as social withdrawal and isolation, increase sensitivity to socializing or rejection
• Appetite changes such as sugar and carb cravings (aka, comfort food!) 

There are many reasons seasonal depression comes into play throughout the end of the year. Shorter and colder days means less sunlight (vitamin D) and less outdoor activity, often meaning more days inside and less social interactions.

Managing the symptoms of seasonal depression is certainly possible but will require some intention and effort. Here are some ways to help make manage the symptoms of seasonal depression:

• Getting as much sunlight as possible, even on those cloudy days
• Exercising and moving your body regularly
• Consuming nutritious meals that also provide some comfort
• Prioritizing your social life through meets ups, phone calls/Facetimes, etc.
• Exploring new hobbies (crafts, reading a book, trying new recipes/baking, puzzles - just to name a few)
• Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule (oversleeping will increase symptoms of depression-- balance is key!) 

While all of the tips listed above are SO important for the fall and winter months, sometimes extra professional support is needed too. Therapy can offer a space to process the emotions that come with this time of year and provide you the tools needed to ensure you get through it as best you can.

If you are interested in starting therapy, we are here to help you. Contact us today to see if one of our clinicians sounds like a good fit and start your journey to managing your seasonal depression.