By Meagan Gerchen, MSW, LCSW
Do you ever go through periods where you just don’t feel like yourself? Do you find yourself feeling heavier or more down during the winter months? You aren’t imagining it. As the days get shorter and we lose access to natural light, our biology shifts. We leave for work or school in the dark and return home in the dark. This lack of sunlight impacts how we think, feel, and act. If you notice significant changes in your mood as the seasons turn, you may be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
SAD is a type of depression that occurs with the changing of seasons—most commonly in the fall and winter months. It is often triggered by reduced sunlight, which disrupts our sleep cycles and overall mood. While anyone can experience this, individuals living in the Midwest are more susceptible due to our long winters.
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and trouble sleeping (or oversleeping)
- Persistent sadness for two weeks or more
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Social withdrawal
- Weight gain or digestive issues
- Difficulty concentrating
Who is at risk?
While SAD can affect anyone, it is statistically more common in women ages 18–30. Additionally, individuals with prior mental health diagnoses, such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or mood disorders, may have a higher risk.
How to Treat Seasonal Affective Disorder
Luckily, there are effective ways to manage these symptoms:
- Light Therapy: Using a “happy light” (light therapy lamp) for just 15 minutes a day can mimic natural sunlight. Try sitting in front of one while drinking your morning coffee or checking emails.
- Vitamin D: Consult your physician about Vitamin D supplements to counteract the lack of sun exposure.
- Behavioral Activation: It can be hard to find motivation when you feel down, but “doing” often leads to “feeling better.” Try to intrinsically motivate yourself to engage in small, enjoyable activities—walking your dog, watching a funny movie, and or practicing a new skill.
We Are Here to Help
If you or a loved one is struggling to manage these symptoms, you don’t have to do it alone. At West County Behavioral Health, our team is equipped to help you understand SAD and develop a personalized treatment plan. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to speak with a mental health provider.
It is so important to find a provider who you can feel completely comfortable with. I am compassionate, empathic, and have a non-judgmental approach when it comes to my therapeutic practice. I am invested in meeting my clients where they are and helping them learn tools that better help themselves regulate and function in their everyday life. I provide guidance to clients to help them have the courage to express themselves, advocate, and learn to communicate more openly with others. I also use a holistic lens, as I believe it is important to see a person as a whole – whether that may be discussing physical, emotional, mental, and/or spiritual components of life.
I graduated from Loyola University in Chicago and have had 8 years of experience working in all levels of behavioral health care in the Chicago area. I’m looking forward to expanding my practice and experience with clients in the Saint Louis area (in-person), as well as still
seeing clients who are in Illinois (virtually). I enjoy working with children who need help with expressing their emotions in a safe way and learning how to regulate themselves when experiencing strong emotions, as well as teenagers experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or having relationship difficulties. I also provide the ability to check in with parents about their child’s progress and growth throughout therapy. In addition, I also work with adults struggling with life transitions, changes, or relationship struggles as well. I appreciate outpatient therapy, as it allows me to create lasting relationships with my clients. I value the privilege of hearing someone else’s story and allowing individuals to feel like they are not alone. Join me in this therapy process if you would like to discover more about yourself or your child. I look forward to working with you and your family!
