“Can winter cause depression in some people?”
Every time I see snow or winter approaching, I begin to feel depressed. People say it is normal, but it really worries me. Some years are worse than others. What can I do?
2 Answers
Absolutely! Seasonal depression is common. If you are in a social work field, find a hobby and join a club, do something injoyable. Get plenty of rest! if you are in a non social service career, volunteer and donate your time to the community. Go see your family doctor for a mild antidepresent and get a counselor to help you through this time. Your worries are validated! Seasonal depression is common!
Hi,
Thanks for your question. Yes, winter can cause depression in some individuals. The condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder or Major Depressive Disorder, with Seasonal Pattern. Some signs and symptoms of this type of depression include: feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, having low energy, having problems with sleeping, experiencing changes in your appetite or weight, feeling sluggish or agitated, having difficulty concentrating, feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty, and having
frequent thoughts of death or suicide. Treatment may include light therapy (phototherapy), medications, and psychotherapy.
It's normal to have some days when you feel down. But if you feel down for days at a time and you can't get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, it might be time to seek professional help. This is especially important if your sleep patterns and appetite have changed, you turn to drugs/alcohol for comfort or relaxation, or you feel hopeless or think about suicide. Don't brush off that yearly feeling as simply a case of the "winter blues" or a seasonal funk that you have to tough out on your own. Take steps to keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year.
I hope this is helpful!
Best,
Jenna Torres, PsyD
Thanks for your question. Yes, winter can cause depression in some individuals. The condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder or Major Depressive Disorder, with Seasonal Pattern. Some signs and symptoms of this type of depression include: feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, having low energy, having problems with sleeping, experiencing changes in your appetite or weight, feeling sluggish or agitated, having difficulty concentrating, feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty, and having
frequent thoughts of death or suicide. Treatment may include light therapy (phototherapy), medications, and psychotherapy.
It's normal to have some days when you feel down. But if you feel down for days at a time and you can't get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, it might be time to seek professional help. This is especially important if your sleep patterns and appetite have changed, you turn to drugs/alcohol for comfort or relaxation, or you feel hopeless or think about suicide. Don't brush off that yearly feeling as simply a case of the "winter blues" or a seasonal funk that you have to tough out on your own. Take steps to keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year.
I hope this is helpful!
Best,
Jenna Torres, PsyD
