Do you ever notice that your mood changes with the weather? Many people say that the weather can either bring them down or pick up their mood. While these fluctuations are completely normal, some people become clinically depressed or anxious depending on the weather.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at the same time every year. Most people with SAD are affected by the winter months where the weather seems more grey and gloomy. However, others have the opposite pattern where they feel worse during the spring and summer months. Feelings of depression may begin quite mild at the beginning of the season but can become more intense as the season continues.
The following are possible symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, or seasonal depression:
Depressed mood
Feelings of hopelessness
Anxiety
Loss of energy
Oversleeping or difficulty sleeping
Loss of interest in activities
Increase or decrease in appetite
Difficulty concentrating
While it’s normal to have some days when you feel down or depressed, if you begin feeling consistently depressed for several days or weeks, it may be beneficial to ask for help. Although seeking treatment from a psychotherapist or physician may be needed, you may find other activities helpful in improving your mood including making your environment sunnier or brighter or exercising regularly.
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