For some, winter is the most wonderful time of the year; temperatures drop, families reunite and holidays are celebrated.
For the rest of us, winter brings a lack of interest in festivities, irritability, constant fatigue and an overall feeling of sadness.
Unfortunately, this gloominess is what is known as seasonal depression, and it is felt by many. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you’re like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody. Less often, SAD causes depression in the spring or early summer.”
Symptoms of SAD may include low energy, trouble sleeping, hopelessness, guilt or thoughts of suicide.
These symptoms are especially concerning, because they can go easily unnoticed in the chaos and commotion of the holiday season.
I have battled with SAD and various other depressive disorders my entire life, and with the frigid months of winter rapidly approaching, I feel it is extremely important to bring attention to this issue.
It wasn’t until adulthood that I realized my mood was negatively affected by the arrival of winter. I would be excited to return home for the winter break, only to find myself sleeping in until noon, not showering and unable to leave the house. I was grateful for the opportunity to spend time with my family and friends, yet I was miserable on the inside. This feeling was different from that of chronic depression, which I had experienced before. Eventually, I became so miserable on the inside that my parents began to notice how miserable I was from the outside.
Fortunately, I had been diagnosed with depressive and anxiety disorders previously, and both my parents originated from families who struggled with mental illness. They knew the situation needed to be addressed, and with their support and encouragement I sought treatment for SAD through my psychiatrist.
Tragically, most who struggle with SAD or other depressive disorders do not have a psychiatrist, let alone a support system. There are many who struggle alone through the winter as their depression gets more severe. These suffering individuals could be your friends, neighbors or family members.
The symptoms are internal and if visible, they’re subtle. It’s always important to check in with your loved ones, but please don’t neglect to do so during the winter months.
Afterall, it’s the most depressing time of the year.
