According to Mental Health Ministries, many people suffer with a form of depression called seasonal affective disorder (SAD) that occurs during the fall and winter when the days get shorter. Symptoms can include:
Sleep Problems – Desire to oversleep, disturbed
sleep or difficult staying awake
Lethargy – A feeling of fatigue and inability to
carry out normal routines
Overeating – Craving sugary or starchy foods
Social Problems – Irritability and desire to avoid
social situations
Anxiety – Tension and inability to tolerate stress
Loss of Libido – Decreased interest in sex or
physical contact
Mood Changes – Extremes in mood and/or short
periods of hypomania
One of the most effective treatments for SAD is light exposure that can range from just spending time outside to a light treatment called phototherapy. If you feel that you may have SAD, you should discuss your symptoms with a mental health professional.
References:
Mental Health Ministries. 2021. Bulletin inserts: What is seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and how faith communities can respond. http://www.mentalhealthministries.net/resources/bulletin_inserts.html
Bulletin Board Ideas:
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder/index.shtml
ResourcesIf you or someone you know is in immediate distress or is thinking about hurting themselves, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or the toll-free TTY number at 1-800-799-4TTY (4889). You also can text the Crisis Text Line (HELLO to 741741) or go to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website. |