Written by Dr. Aisha Harris
Each year, there are multiple transitions happening, and 2024 is no different. With the
campaigns behind us and daylight savings recently passing, we all are going through a time of adjustment.
But some of us will have a little bit more difficult time because of Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is defined as recurrent episodes of major ԁерrеѕѕiοո, maոiа, or hурοmаniа – with seasonal onset and remission. What does this mean? For many it means they will have a significant shift in their mental health with the season changes and then will return to their baseline when the season passes.
There are two different periods: the transition time from fall to winter called “Winter Depression” and the transition time from spring to summer called “Summer Depression”.
The most common episode of seasonal affective disorder is major depression that occurs during a specific time period. Some common symptoms include feeling sad, feeling hopeless, sleeping more often, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, having difficulty concentrating and having thoughts of suicide, death or guilt.
Many people verbalize a change when the season shifts – especially from fall to winter – because of the change in weather, sunlight and temperature. For some this is temporary, but for many people, treatment is a good option to improve their mood and health.
Some of the main treatment options for seasonal affective disorder are medications like antidepressants, light therapy and psychotherapy. Other things that may be helpful include improving sleep through better sleep hygiene, daily walks outside even on cloudy days and even exercise.
It is beneficial for everyone, any time of year, to talk to their medical doctor about their change in mood and get a full evaluation so you can properly manage your symptoms.
There are many different medical problems that can mimic seasonal affective disorder including thyroid issues, diabetes, autoimmune disease and more.
So, as the season changes, do not just let yourself get into a funk, get checked out to make sure you are maximizing all of your resources and getting a full evaluation of your mental and physical health!
Dr. Aisha Harris, MD, is a Flint native and board-certified family medicine doctor at Harris Family Health in Flint, Michigan. Harris Family Health is a membership-based clinic that provides personalized and full primary care to adults and children. Learn more about Harris Family Health by visiting www.harrisfamilyhealth.com.
Feel free to submit health questions to Dr. Harris via theflintcouriernews@gmail.com.
