Seasonal Affective Disorder: Treatment is Available

As the seasons begin to change you may find yourself looking forward to all things Fall and even the holidays. While this can be an exciting time for some, others can dread the changing of seasons. As we move into Fall the days begin to get shorter and darker. This can feel cozy for some and depressing for others. If you find yourself feeling more depressed as the seasons shift, you aren’t alone. Seasonal Affective Disorder is treatable, therapy can help.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) impacts approximately 5% of adults in the US and typically lasts about 40% of the year. This can be a significant amount of time and can greatly impact your functioning.

Symptoms of SAD can include:

  • Feeling sad or depressed
  • Decreased interest in things you used to enjoy
  • Appetite changes (eating more or less than usual)
  • Decreased energy
  • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
  • Changes in your sleep patterns, generally this involves sleeping more than usual
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Struggling with making decisions

These symptoms can become so intense that some will report having thoughts of death or suicide. SAD does not have to progress to this point. Intervening sooner rather than later can make a big difference.

What Can Help with Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is treatable. A combination of therapy and psychiatric medication management can make a world of difference. Creating a plan that is right for you can help you to tackle your symptoms and even start enjoying all the seasons again.

There are many approaches that can effectively treat your symptoms, though Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) tends to be one of the most popular and sought out. Carolina Counseling Services in Cameron, NC contracts with skilled, licensed therapists and psychiatric professionals that know how to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder. Our caring Scheduling Team can help you find the provider that is the best fit for you.

You don’t have to choose between therapy and medication management either, you can schedule with providers for both. There is no one size fits all approach to your care with CCS. Call today to schedule your first appointment. Online sessions are also available making getting the care you need and deserve easier than ever before!

Providers are in network with most major insurances including Aetna, Aetna State Health Plan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC), Tricare, Medicaid and many more!

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Jaime Johnson Fitzpatrick LCMHCS, LCAS is one of the Owners and Vice Presidents of Carolina Counseling Services. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in the State of North Carolina as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in State of New York. Jaime is also certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and utilizes various other approaches in her practice.