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.

Popular posts from this blog

Symptoms of a Panic Attack

How Can You Use a Therapist to Get Rid of Anxiety?

What is Social Anxiety Disorder?