Seasonal Depression also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that typically occurs in the fall and winter months when the sunlight is reduced. During this time, many people experience sadness or mood changes affecting how they feel, think, and behave. As the winter and holiday seasons approach, it is important to take care of yourself and your loved ones who may experience Seasonal Depression. 

Causes and Factors

Seasonal Depression typically occurs in the fall and winter due to a change in environmental factors. As there is a reduction in natural light, there is a disruption in the body’s circadian rhythm which affects the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and melatonin. With a lack of serotonin and overproduction of melatonin, our mood and sleep are affected and worsened. Although Seasonal Depression is associated with environmental factors, it can also be associated with genetic and psychological factors. Many individuals with a family history of mental disorders are more susceptible to Seasonal Depression. 

Symptoms

Many symptoms of Seasonal Depression are similar to those with regular depression but typically last a few months of the year in the fall/winter. Symptoms of someone experiencing seasonal depression include: 

• Oversleeping
• Overeating, causing a weight gain
• Lack of social interactions 
• Persistent sadness or feeling “empty” 
• Hopelessness
• Irritability and frustration 
• Lost interest in hobbies 
• Decreased energy and fatigue
• Physical pain 

It is important to watch for these symptoms in your loved ones and yourself. Seasonal Depression can lead to more physical and psychological pain if not recognized early on. If you or any loved one are experiencing symptoms of Seasonal Depression, talk to your physician or a psychiatrist to get your diagnosis. Symptoms in each person may vary but talking to a health care provider can give more insight on how to help you tackle your depression. 

Treatments

Some treatments for Seasonal Depression include: 

• Exposure to sunlight or Light Therapy can help relieve symptoms of depression by increasing your serotonin levels. It can help regulate the circadian rhythm and improve mood. 
• Antidepressants can help correct the chemical imbalance and alleviate many symptoms. A serotonin reuptake inhibitors can increase the availability of serotonin in the brain by blocking its reuptake, thereby enhancing its effects.

Some other ways to help relieve symptoms include: 

• Getting regular exercise
• Staying away from alcohol and drugs 
• Hanging out with friends 
• Participate in small activities that may bring you joy
• Don’t push yourself to big tasks 

By doing these activities, seasonal depression does not just go away. It is important to know that it takes time to adjust back to your normal routine and self. Be patient with yourself or any loved one experiencing these symptoms. 

To read more about Seasonal Depression:

• National Institute of Mental Health - Seasonal Affective Disorder
• Johns Hopkins Medicine - Seasonal Affective Disorder

If you are struggling with your mental health, consider talking to someone you trust or your doctor. Therapy is available at CAPS and outpatient psychiatric treatment is available at SHS and UCR Health. Contact us at 1-844-827-8000 or submit an online appointment form to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

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What to Notice

Dr. Yamaguchi, Director of Student Mental Health speaks on some signs and symptoms one may express if they are going through a tough mental headspace. Some signs of worsening mental health include

• withdrawing or isolating from typical social contacts or activities
• increased substance use, worsening grades or other issues at school
• increasing conflict in relationships
• decline in hygiene or grooming

Dr. Yamaguchi shares these from her own experience working with students struggling with mental health. They may not be apparent signs that some may share either but having a conversation about mental health can help encourage disclosure. Many individuals express different symptoms so noticing any abnormal behavior may help someone that is struggling.

How to Help 

If a loved one is struggling with their mental health, consider conversing with them about what you’ve noticed. Focus on listening to them and trying to understand. If you feel they may benefit from a professional evaluation or other professional services, you can help them set up a therapy or doctor appointment. You may call the CARES line at (800) 499-3008, which offers support and referrals 24/7 in Riverside County. If this is an emergency, call 911.

If you are struggling with your mental health, consider talking to someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, professor, or your doctor. If the issue has risen to the level of an emergency, it is best to seek immediate assistance by calling 911 or going to the nearest hospital. For suicidal thoughts, you can call the national suicide hotline by dialing 988. Therapy is available at CAPS and outpatient psychiatric treatment is available at SHS and UCR Health. Contact us at 1-844-827-8000 or submit an online appointment form to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

The post National Suicide Awareness Month appeared first on UCR Health.

Depression affects people of all ages, even children. Childhood depression (also known as pediatric depression) differs from the typical emotions a child experiences as they develop. It’s normal for children to feel sad, low, negative, and cranky from time to time. However, if your child feels down often, or sadness lingers for a long time, your child can be at risk for developing depression.

The risk for depression increases with age through childhood and continues to rise in adolescents. About 2% of children younger than 12 years old will experience depression. This number climbs to 3.5-6% when looking at adolescents (12-17 years old), with female adolescents twice as likely as male adolescents to develop depression.   

Symptoms of childhood depression

Depressed mood is the most common symptom for pediatric depression. More than half of children with depression will also suffer from irritability, or be easily annoyed with little things. This will be seen as them being “grouchy,” bothered,” or much more sensitive to everything and/or everyone. Children and adolescents who are depressed may be more argumentative, frequently starting fights with peers or adults, and commonly have more tantrums or meltdowns. Other symptoms include decreased energy, changes in appetite and sleep, difficulty with concentration, loss of interest in school or social activities, and thoughts of hopelessness, self-harm, or wanting to end their life.

Treating depression in children

While depression doesn’t go away on its own, most children or adolescents with depression respond well to therapy and do not need medications. In some cases, medications will be recommended in combination with therapy.

Depression at any age is very serious, and if you have concerns about a child or adolescent with depression, talk with your child’s doctor about seeking treatment with a child psychologist or child psychiatrist.

If your child or someone you know says anything about suicide or self-harm, you should take this very seriously. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or call 911 immediately. This is an emergency and professional help is available.

View Dr. Michele Nelson’s profile to learn more.

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