Why Do I Feel Depressed in the Winter?

Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that is related to the change of seasons and lack of sunlight during the winter months.

Shorter days and less sunlight affect many people. For some, it shows up as low energy or a heavier mood. For others, it can be seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression that follows the seasons. Either way, you are not alone, and help is available.

What seasonal affective disorder is

Seasonal affective disorder, often called SAD, usually starts in late fall or early winter and eases in spring. Less daylight can affect the body's internal clock and the brain chemicals that influence mood and sleep. It is more than the winter blues. It can make daily life hard.

Common signs

If these feelings last most days for two weeks or more, talk with your doctor:

• Feeling sad, hopeless or empty much of the time.
• Losing interest in things you usually enjoy.
• Sleeping much more than usual, or having trouble waking.
• Craving carbohydrates or noticing changes in weight.
• Low energy and trouble concentrating.
• Pulling away from friends and family.

What can help

Treatment depends on the person. Your doctor may suggest light therapy, talk therapy, medicine, or a combination. There are also everyday steps that support your mood. Get outside during daylight hours, even for a short walk. Open your blinds in the morning. Keep a regular sleep schedule. Stay active and stay connected with people you care about.

Asking for help with your mood is just as important as asking for help with your body.

Medicines and supplements

If you are prescribed a medicine for depression, take it as directed and give it time, since many take several weeks to show their full effect. Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor. Before trying any supplement or herbal product for mood, check with your pharmacist. Some can interact with prescription medicines in serious ways.

If you are in crisis

If you are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any time, day or night. In an emergency, call 911.

At CarePoint, our pharmacists are always here for a private conversation about your medicines and how you are feeling.

If someone you love seems withdrawn or down this winter, reach out. A simple message, a walk together, or an invitation to share a meal can mean more than you know. You do not have to have the right words. Listening without judgment and encouraging them to talk with a doctor are powerful ways to help. Take care of your own mood along the way.

Have questions about anything in this article? Call us at 661.480.2373 and talk with a CarePoint pharmacist. We are happy to help, and there is never a charge for a conversation.

This article is general education, not medical advice.