Depression affects people from all walks of life. Anyone can develop depression at any time. Seasonal depression, also called SAD, is a common type of depression that affects people in the Northern Hemisphere every winter. For those in New England, changes in weather and light can lead to seasonal depression. While seasonal depression is temporary, it’s important to know that depression treatment centers provide tools and support for SAD.
If you or someone in your life is looking for treatment for seasonal depression, A Better State can help. Our outpatient depression treatment center provides a range of treatment options. With holistic, trauma-informed partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), we have a program for you. Call us now to learn more about seasonal depression and 781.412.1488 and start outpatient mental health treatment.
What Is Seasonal Depression?
Seasonal depression, also called seasonal affective disorder, is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months. A depressed mood classifies as depression. This broad definition can present in various ways. While many associate depression with sadness, many report feelings of emptiness or difficulty fully experiencing emotions. This emptiness or numbness often pairs with changes in food, physical activity, and daily life.
While seasonal depression has similar symptoms to other depressive disorders, changes in the amount of daylight someone gets can trigger seasonal depression. The shorter days and longer nights of winter months can change hormones and affect mood. Changes in GABA and melatonin production can decrease sleep and increase depression. While Seasonal affective disorder is most common during winter months, it can occur any time of year.
Some people experience SAD during early spring or fall when light exposure changes. Some people may be more sensitive to seasonal depression than others. However, anyone struggling should seek treatment, including talk therapy, supplements, lifestyle changes, light therapy, and medication.
Common Symptoms of Seasonal Depression
Seasons affect everyone differently. So does depression. While there are common symptoms, it’s important to remember that everyone has different symptoms, triggers, and severity.
Some symptoms of seasonal depression include:
- Feeling sad or irritable throughout the season
- Trouble sleeping and waking up feeling tired
- Changes in appetite
- Lack of motivation
- Disinterest in favorite activities
- Difficulty engaging with others
- Difficulty completing tasks
Seasonal depression can make it difficult for someone to manage daily life. Unfortunately, it can lead to self-soothing with drugs, alcohol, food, or behaviors that make depression worse in the long run.
Find Help Today with a Depression Treatment Center in New Hampshire
Living with seasonal depression isn’t easy. Most people struggle through SAD because they know it is temporary. Unfortunately, this can decrease the overall quality of life and lead to substance abuse and other problems. Seasonal depression is treatable.
Managing SAD may be easier than you think. If you or someone you love is feeling low, having trouble sleeping, and concerned about depression affecting daily life, we can help. A Better State provides accessible depression treatment in Southern New Hampshire. We understand the effects of winter months and changes in light have on New Englanders.
Our holistic depression treatment programs include:
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Art therapy
- Yoga therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Mindfulness meditation therapy
With PHP and IOP options, we make depression treatment accessible. Whether you live in New Hampshire or Northern Massachusetts, our daytime and evening programs can assess, diagnose, and treat your seasonal depression. Our individual, group, and family therapy programs are here to support you, no matter the time of year.
Learn More About Seasonal Depression Treatment at A Better State
You don’t have to live with seasonal depression. Treatment is available and easy to begin today. Contact us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more about depression treatment in New Hampshire today.
