Seasonal Affective Disorder Therapist in Brooklyn with Flourish

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Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder, sometimes referred to as “Seasonal Depression,” is a form of depression that is typically directly related to the climate, weather, and light of the late fall and winter months.

Its origin can vary between individuals, but there is a link between SAD and early nightfall, more indoor activities (due to rain and cold).

In addition, although seasonal affective disorder is linked to the seasons, there may also be psychological links. For example, many people have psychological struggles associated with the holidays – a time when family gets together, and many people are stressed about money, gifts, past traumas, and much more. Seasonal affective disorder can thus have many causes that likely all connect together.
The symptoms of SAD are similar to other forms of depression, and include:

However, it’s important to recognize that while SAD shares similarities with other forms of depression, its seasonal pattern is a defining characteristic. It is theoretically possible to experience seasonal depression during summer or non-winter months, but it is unlikely.

What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder?

The exact cause of SAD isn’t fully understood, but several factors are thought to contribute:

The Impact of SAD and its Treatment

Living with Seasonal Affective Disorder can feel overwhelming, affecting personal and professional life. However, effective treatment can alleviate symptoms and significantly improve quality of life. Some treatment options include:

Each individual’s experience with SAD is unique, which is why at Flourish Psychology we tailor our treatment approaches to fit the specific needs of our clients.