January can be a very dark time, in more than one sense of the word. While the shortest day of the year occurs in the midst of a time when many are celebrating religious or secular holidays, the short days stay with us well into February before starting to lengthen noticeably. As the Hannukah gifts are put away, the Christmas tree taken down, the New Years confetti vacuumed up, we return to “life as normal.” We return to our daily responsibilities and challenges. This part of the year, when the days are still dark but the partying is largely over, can be a difficult time for many to face.
In the Seattle area, and especially this year, we often experience quite a bit of cloudy weather. This, combined with the shorter days, can exacerbate feelings of sadness, lack of interest in life, and hopelessness.
Seasonal Affective Disorder, commonly referred to as SAD, is common in this area. It is estimated that half a million Americans may suffer from SAD, and the further away from the equator a person lives, the more likely she or he is to develop symptoms of SAD.
SAD is very similar to clinical depression, but the key difference is that SAD is only experienced during these dark, winter months. Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms of depression?
- decrease in energy
- excessive tiredness
- sadness
- anxiety
- appetite changes
- loss of interest in sex
- withdrawal from friends and family
- difficulty concentrating
- strong feelings of sadness
- a sense of hopelessness
If you are experiencing some of these things, then you may be suffering from SAD or Depression. The good news is that, because these are very common conditions, there are many known treatments, including things you can do at home and techniques that a counselor may use with you. It is also a good idea to have a medical check-up if you are experiencing symptoms of Depression, because certain medical conditions may cause Depression.
While it may not feel like it to persons experiencing SAD or Depression, there truly is hope for life to get better. Sometimes in the midst of darkness it feels like there will never be light again. But, even in the midst of this–literally–dark season, the beauty is that each day is getting slightly longer and lighter than the day before. The weather will continue to get better as spring approaches. The changing of the seasons teaches us that even in the midst of darkness, there is light.
If you’re having trouble seeing the light on your own, talking to trusted friends and family may be a great help, as well as discussing your concerns with a professional–a counselor and/or a doctor. If you are concerned that a friend or family member may be experiencing Depression or SAD, this website has some very helpful information.
Life can get better. There is hope. It may be hard to gather up the energy to seek help, but reaching out can be the first step toward light in the midst of the darkness. And you are worth it.
Thursday, January 14, 2010