 Nine Steps You Can Take to Alleviate SAD Symptoms by Kassandra David, MSW, LISW and Mary Tanner, MSW, LISW Long nights, gloomy weather and chilly temperatures are upon us. At this time of year, it’s not unusual to feel less energetic or downright unmotivated. But for the estimated 10 million Americans who suffer from seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, the change in season can trigger a depression that runs deeper than a seasonal funk. While SAD can strike during the spring and summer, it most often occurs during fall and winter. Regardless of the season, SAD is not something that you need to “tough out.” Treatment is available. More Than Just the Blues SAD is a type of depression that should not be confused with the wintertime blues. The winter blues can leave you feeling down; SAD, on the other hand, can be debilitating. Symptoms of SAD to watch out for during fall and winter include:
For those who suffer from depression or anxiety, SAD can feel like a double whammy. This year, the coronavirus is only amplifying those symptoms. By limiting the activities and connections that we usually rely on to get through these dark months, COVID-19 has elevated feelings of isolation and anxiety. The coronavirus pandemic is also taking away our sense of control over our surroundings. But for those who are suffering from SAD, there are still plenty of ways to find respite. Relief is Available One of the most common misconceptions about SAD is that nothing can be done. While it’s true that we can’t control the weather or make the days longer by sheer will, it is within our power to manage our symptoms. Here are nine steps you can take on your own to start feeling better:
When You Need More Help Sometimes taking steps on your own is not enough to alleviate SAD. That’s OK. It’s not a sign of weakness to seek help for SAD or any other mental health issue. The important thing to remember is that you don’t need to suffer. If you continue to struggle, then reach out to your physician, a counselor, a social worker or a psychologist for help. It is their job to listen, support you and help you find the resources you need to cope. If you don’t feel secure visiting a therapist in person during the pandemic, then consider tele-therapy. It is safe, effective and convenient. There are many tele-therapists at Compass Point who are accepting new patients now. Compass Point also offers an online scheduling system for new clients so that you can be matched with a best-fit clinician and schedule an appointment at your convenience. Kasandra “Kassey” David, MSW, LISW Kassey is a licensed independent social worker. She holds a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Toledo. Her treatment philosophy is informed by many disciplines both within and outside of standard treatment models. She keeps motivational interviewing, the strengths-based perspective, systems theory, reality therapy and solution- focused therapy in her counseling toolbox. Contact us to see if Kassey is accepting new patients. Mary Tanner, MSW, LISW
Mary is a licensed independent social worker. She has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a master’s degree in Education from Xavier University. She also has a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa. She provides a safe, relaxed space for individuals, couples and families to comfortably work on the goals they set for themselves. She will help you clarify your goals and determine how to use your strengths and therapeutic interventions to achieve them. Contact us to see if Mary is currently accepting new clients |
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