Seasons change, and…
“Seasons change, and mad things rearrange…” Lauryn Hill, The Fugees, How Many Mics
The seasons change and the world transforms overnight. Suddenly you’re waking before the sun rises and it’s dark again by 5PM. California is FINALLY getting some reprieve from summer heat while other parts of the US enjoy fall foliage accompanying cooler temperatures. Mariah Carey is on the radio early, holiday decor has been advertised for at least two weeks already, and you’re in disbelief that we’re so near the end of 2021...
Possible NSFW language warning
But what if it’s not just the world around you that seems to change so suddenly? What if it feels like “mad things rearrange” inside of you? Maybe you find yourself feeling “blue” or “bummed out.” It's increasingly difficult to get out of bed in the morning and you feel constantly fatigued. You are no longer interested in some of your favorite activities like hanging out with friends and yet you simultaneously feel lonely and disconnected. You’re wrestling with feelings of worthlessness, your brain feels “foggy,” and you just can’t focus like you usually do.
If you’re noticing any of those feelings described above, you may be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder. Also known as “SAD” or “seasonal depression,” this Seasonal Affective Disorder describes depressive symptoms that coincide with the onset of fall and winter seasons and then remits in the spring and summer.
If you’re feeling down this season, some things that might be helpful include:
1.) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Reading a blog and/or self diagnosis is not a substitute for therapy - working with a licensed therapist who specializes in CBT has been demonstrated to be an effective intervention for Seasonal Affective Disorder. A therapist can provide an accurate diagnosis and will collaborate with you to identify and adjust thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that contribute to your depressive symptoms, as well as practice coping skills to use when you’re feeling down.
2.) Getting Outside and/or Light Therapy: Studies also show that when the lack of natural light contributes to internal depressive feelings, increasing exposure to light can be helpful. That could be as simple as taking a walk during your lunch break (make sure to bundle up if it’s getting chilly!) or seeking Light Therapy treatment.
3.) Reach out to your supports: Changing of autumn and winter seasons is also representative of societal changes. Many people experience loneliness and/or difficulty getting through holiday seasons. Reaching out to loved ones, friends, and family, can be helpful in dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder.
If this post resonated with you and you’d like to learn more about working together in therapy feel free to reach out by clicking the button below. My name is Kevin - I’m a therapist (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with 10+ years’ experience. I’m a hip hop head, an aspiring baker, and a National Parks enthusiast. I specialize in solution-focused and trauma-informed care, often using cognitive-behavioral strategies during therapy. I get joy in collaborating with clients as they process the past, embrace the present, and create their futures.
