What is Seasonal Depression?
Seasonal depression is a generic term that describes
affective disorders that appear to be caused by weather conditions and
implicitly by seasons. We say "they appear to be caused", because
in reality they are not. The American Psychiatric Association states that
seasonal affective disorders are, in fact, a sign of major depression or
bipolar disorder, so they are not generated by seasonal changes or temperature
changes, but exist in a context and are only influenced by certain meteorological
conditions.
Thus, most of those suffering from the so-called seasonal depression
actually suffer from major depressive disorder and 20% may develop bipolar
disorder (manic-depressive), if they do not have it already. Most studies refer
to winter depression, when talking about seasonal affective disorders, although
there is a significant number of people suffering from depression in the spring
or summer too.
A person who has this disorder may experience various
symptoms - but they must be stronger and more durable than symptoms of a momentary
ailment:
·
low appetite
·
daytime drowsiness
·
concentration and attention difficulties
·
tendency to sleep more
·
low energy levels and hence lack of motivation
and tendency to postpone daily tasks
·
difficulty of withstanding low temperatures
·
avoiding friendly, social, and family activities.
Sometimes these seasonal disorders can cause disharmony in a marriage. If you are finding this to be so in your relationship, consider looking for the best marriage counseling in Westminster to get the help you may need to overcome this very real problem.