IN STEP BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, S.C.
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Seasonal Affect Disorder


12/04/17

Tis the season for the ‘Winter Blues’ to begin settling back in.  The sun begins to set sooner, the leaves begin to change and the thermostat begins to be a friend we check in on more often.  The Mayo clinic defines Seasonal Affective Disorder as:
 
“Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody. Less often, SAD causes depression in the spring or early summer.”
 
Clients begin to arrive with concerns related to sleep changes, changes in appetite or feeling changes in level of fatigue.  Unfortunately, in the Midwest the population faces an onset of symptoms which can mimic a depressive episode. Awareness of the symptoms combined with a toolbox of skills to combat these changes, can help alter the perception of the cold winter months.
 
So, what can we do? The level of impact these changes has on people can vary greatly.  Some can go about their daily life with little to no impact, for some others this rapid shift can be severely debilitating.  Many resources recommend light therapy. Light therapy can be as simple as adding a light bulb to a socket that you see daily. Other recommendations include monitoring your vitamin D levels, eating more foods that contain less sugar/carbs and/or engaging in healthy activities more often. 

The single most important message is that you are not alone in feeling this way.  As professionals we are well-versed in helping clients to get back to a level of stability and productivity.  If you have several days grouped together where you feel you cannot complete activities you enjoy or experience a lack of motivation, please consult with your medical team.
 
Please be aware that there is a large difference between SAD and Major Depressive episodes.  If you find yourself feeling symptoms and are unsure of what to do please call ISBH for an assessment with a professional.  We can help you sort through the presenting symptoms and develop an appropriate course of treatment.
 
630-262-2640
Matthew Cermak
MSW LSW CADC MISA I


​In Step Behavioral Health

1024 W Main Street, St. Charles IL 60174

​Phone: (630) 262 - 2640
Fax:     (630) 262 - 2645

​M:   8:30 am - 5:00 pm
T:    8:30 am - 5:00 pm
W:   8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Th:  9:00 am - 6:30 pm
F:    9:00 am - 2:00 pm
​Sat: 9:00 am - 12:00 noon
​​Some therapists offer extended hours, including evenings and weekends beyond those posted.  Please contact the office to inquire.

Prescription refill requests are accepted during office hours only and will  be processed within 3 business days.


NOTE: Patients with urgent or life threatening situations should ​call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.​​
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© 2023 In Step Behavioral Health, S.C.-  All rights reserved.
  • Home
  • Services
  • Spravato
  • FAQ
  • Appointments
  • Contact
  • Info
    • Registration Forms
    • Prescriptions
    • FMLA, Disability and Letters
    • After Hours Charges
    • Methods of Payment
    • Insurance
    • Managing Mental Health
    • Mental Health Resources
  • Blog
    • Coaching, an Investment in Ourselves
    • What’s wrong with marijuana? It’s legal..
    • Grief
    • Why do I feel blah?
    • Self Reflection
    • Wisdom in 2021
    • Proactive Steps to Manage SAD during Covid
    • Use of Technology for Mental Health
    • EMDR An Effective Treatment for Trauma
    • How to be a better “listener”
    • Creativity In Mental Health
    • Co-Dependency: Definition and Characteristics
    • Do I have ADHD?
    • Taking Care of Yourself
    • Summer and Structure?
    • The Transition
    • Self-compassion: The Core of Healthy Living
    • Substances and Mental Health
    • Technology and Stress
    • Agreeing to Disagree in Uncertain Times
    • An App for All Seasons
    • Parent Teachers Conferences
    • Seasonal Affect Disorder
    • Sleep Habits & Tips
  • Jobs
    • Psychiatrists
    • Nurse Practitioner / Phys Asst
    • Psychologist