Guarding Your Emotional
Well-being Through
Seasonal Shifts

Ever notice how the change in seasons can mess with your mood? As the leaves start to fall and the days get shorter, it’s easy to feel a little down. But for some people, these seasonal changes can bring on more than just a case of the blues – they can trigger something called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.

SAD is like a cloud that hangs over you, making it hard to enjoy life. It’s not just feeling a little sad – it’s a form of depression that comes and goes with the seasons. And it’s more common than you might think, affecting about five percent of Americans.

So, what causes SAD? Well, one big factor is sunlight. As the days get shorter, we get less natural light, which can mess with our mood-regulating chemicals in the brain. Add in the stress of the holidays and family gatherings, and it’s no wonder some people feel overwhelmed.

Some groups are at a higher risk of developing seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Here are the main ones:

  1. Women: Women are four times more likely than men to develop SAD.
  2. People living far from the equator: Those who live far north or south of the equator are more susceptible to SAD due to decreased sunlight exposure during the winter months.
  3. Individuals with a family history of depression: If depression runs in your family, you’re more likely to develop SAD.
  4. People with depression or bipolar disorder: Symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder can worsen during seasonal changes, increasing the risk of SAD.
  5. Young people: Children and teenagers are at a higher risk of SAD compared to older adults.

Understanding these risk factors can help identify individuals who may benefit from early intervention and support for managing SAD symptoms. If you or someone you know falls into one of these high-risk groups, it’s essential to seek help from a qualified therapist or healthcare provider.

Nurturing Your Emotional Health Across Every Season

But here’s the good news: SAD is treatable. Therapy, light therapy, and other treatments can help you manage your symptoms and feel more like yourself again. And the sooner you seek help, the better.

If you’re struggling with SAD or just feeling down as the seasons change, know that you’re not alone. Carolina Counseling Services – Cameron, NC is here to help you navigate the ups and downs of seasonal transitions and find relief from your symptoms. Don’t let SAD dim your light – reach out for support and start feeling better today.