Many of us start to experience a familiar feeling of sadness as the days get shorter and the temperature drops. Previously “low-lift” activities like social gatherings, workouts, and maintaining our multiple inboxes now cause inconvenience and dread. Our motivation and focus have decreased drastically, and we feel unusually tired and foggy. Because it’s human nature to numb ourselves, before we know it, we’ve entered a destructive spiral of anxiety, avoidance, and humiliation.

Recognized treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder include psychotherapy, antidepressants and light therapy used in combination or individually (depending on your situation). SAD is a depressive episode that occurs in the fall or early winter and lasts until spring.

The degree of the challenges brought on by SAD varies from person to person. However, this condition can seriously impact social, relational, and emotional life to the point where it causes issues in the workplace and with the family.

Intense fatigue, almost permanent sadness, difficulty concentrating, isolation with withdrawal, tendency to hypersomnia, decreased libido, loss of interest in usual activities, and weight loss, are all negative consequences of SAD, which is considered by health professionals to be an illness in its own right that must be treated. He or she is the best qualified individual to recommend the best course of treatment for you.
The treatment of winter depression, like other forms of depression, is based on:

– Psychotherapy, carried out by a specialist (psychotherapist, psychiatrist or psychologist);
– Antidepressant medication.

Nutritional guidance and exercise might be part of this treatment. These suggestions assist in preserving your physical appearance and enhancing your communication skills.

Keep in mind that, when it comes to mental health, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. These tips will most likely make you more strong to depression this winter; however, even if we’re doing everything we can to manage our mental health holistically, medication may still be the best option. Consult your doctor and consider working with a therapist to determine the best treatment and prevention strategies for you.