Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that usually begins and ends at nearly the same periods each year. Also called seasonal depression, it affects roughly 10 million individuals in the United States. SAD is characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern that usually lasts for 4-5 months yearly. Visiting a mental health clinic is recommended for individuals that experience SAD to address their reasons behind their depression.
As a psychiatry clinic in Houston, we will share the signs and symptoms of SAD:
- Changes in appetite and weight.
- Loss of interest in activities and hobbies.
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness.
- Frequent thoughts about death and suicide.
- Difficulty sleeping and low energy levels.
For fall and winter-onset SAD, the symptoms usually include oversleeping, weight gain, low energy levels, and changes in appetite with a craving for dishes that are high in carbohydrates. Seeing a psychiatrist in Houston Texas is necessary to diagnose seasonal depression.
There are several treatments available to help individuals cope with seasonal depression. This includes depression medication, psychotherapy, light therapy, or increasing vitamin D intake.
If you feel you or a loved one is experiencing seasonal affective disorder, we at Sparks Psychiatry are available to help you get through this rough time. Give us a call or browse our site to make an appointment with us online.