Seasonal Affective Disorder: What It Is and What You Can Do

December 10, 2024

December is Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month, and the NYCDCC Benefit Funds would like to share information regarding this type of depression that impacts 10 million Americans every year. We encourage you to take the time to read this article, and share it with your dependents and fellow members.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD for short) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in season. In most cases, SAD symptoms begin in late fall and early winter as the days become shorter. As days become shorter, the lower levels of sunlight may affect your body chemistry by altering your levels of melatonin (which increases sleepiness), and serotonin (which regulates mood).

What are Symptoms of SAD?

Many SAD symptoms are similar to those of major depression, including:

– Low energy and feeling sluggish
– Feelings of sadness most of the day, nearly every day
– Trouble concentrating
– Oversleeping
– Weight gain
– Anxiety
– Social withdrawal
– Suicidal thoughts or behavior

How is SAD Treated?

People often don’t get the mental health services they need because they don’t know where to start.  If you are experiencing one or more of the above symptoms, consult your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for you.

There are several ways to treat SAD, including:

– Vitamin D
– Psychotherapy (“Talk Therapy”)
– Light Therapy
– Antidepressant medications

Additional Advice from Johns Hopkins Medicine

Below are some things you can do for yourself to help ease symptoms:

– Get help. If you think you may be depressed, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
– Set realistic goals considering the depression. Don’t take on too much. Break large tasks into small ones, set priorities, and do what you can as you can.
– Try to be with other people and confide in someone. It is often better than being alone and secretive.
– Do things that make you feel better. Going to a movie, gardening, or taking part in religious, social, or other activities may help. Doing something nice for someone else can also help you feel better.
– Get regular exercise.
– Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
– Stay away from alcohol and illegal drugs. These can make depression worse.
– Delay big decisions until the depression has lifted. Don’t make a big change right away, such as getting a new job or getting married or divorced. Talk it over first with others who know you well. They will likely have a more objective view of your situation.
– People don’t often snap out of a depression. But they can feel a little better day by day.
– Try to be patient and focus on the positives. This may help replace the negative thinking that is part of the depression. The negative thoughts will go away as your depression responds to treatment.
– Let your family and friends help you.

Learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder here: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/seasonal-affective-disorder-what-you-should-know

NYCDCC Members and the MEND Program

If you or one of your dependents is struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues, please contact the MEND Program for assistance from our accredited staff. The MEND program can be reached by phone at (212) 366-7590 or by email at MEND@nyccbf.org. Please remember that there is no shame in asking for help, that MEND operates under strict confidentiality restrictions, and that we are here to help you and your family.

Visit our MEND homepage here: https://nyccbf.org/news-media/mend-program-and-wellness/