Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that impacts many people as winter months arrive and daylight hours grow shorter. With many people leaving for work in the dark of morning and commuting home in the dark as well, there are fewer and fewer opportunities to experience sunlight. In cases like these, people can begin to experience persistent sad or “low” feelings.
Though southern California isn’t known for long winters, there are enough dark or gloomy days to elicit these feelings. If you or a loved one is experiencing SAD symptoms, visit True Life Center and find out more about our mental health treatment in San Diego. Call 858.202.1822 today for more information.
How Do I Know if I’m Experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Though it’s common to mistake seasonal affective disorder for a simple case of “winter blues,” the condition is more severe than brief bouts of gloom. The condition can significantly affect daily life, causing persistent feelings of fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Additional symptoms include:
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Social withdrawal and isolation
If these symptoms sound familiar, know that you are not alone. SAD affects millions of people every year, but there is hope. With proper treatment, you can learn to manage your symptoms and improve the way you feel. Life can feel bright again.
Seasonal Depression Treatment
Since seasonal affective disorder is related to darkness and weather, there are key differences between how it and other forms of depression are treated. Traditional methods for SAD treatment include:
- Light therapy – This involves exposure to bright artificial light that mimics natural sunlight, which can help regulate mood
- Medication – Antidepressants may be used as a mood stabilizer
- Psychotherapy – Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often an effective way to manage symptoms
Find seasonal depression treatment in San Diego at True Life Center. We emphasize an integrative approach that combines traditional therapies with holistic practices and help our patients treat their minds and their bodies. Our comprehensive approach addresses the whole person for improved overall well-being.
More on Light Therapy
Light therapy is a non-invasive method of treatment that’s specific to seasonal affective disorder and works by helping to regulate moods and circadian rhythms, which can often be disrupted when someone is experiencing this condition. Light therapy works by using:
- Exposure to bright light – During light therapy, individuals sit near a light box that emits bright light, typically at a level that is much brighter than regular indoor lighting but not as intense as direct sunlight.
- Timing and duration – This type of therapy is usually done in the morning for about 20 to 30 minutes. This timing helps reset the body’s internal clock, aligning it more closely with natural daylight patterns.
- Impact on brain chemistry – The exposure to bright light is believed to influence brain chemicals linked to mood and sleep, such as serotonin and melatonin. This can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood.
- Consistent use – Light therapy should be used consistently throughout the fall and winter months for maximum effectiveness.
Light therapy is just one way to help fight seasonal affective disorder. For more information on how to best combat the symptoms of SAD, make sure to contact a mental healthcare provider like True Life Center.
Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment
True Life Center offers unique mental health services, incorporating our neurobiological integration method. We believe in understanding and fostering a mind-body connection and embrace techniques like mindfulness and somatic experiencing, which can enhance the opportunity for long-term healing in our patients.
Our commitment to personalized care ensures that each patient receives a treatment plan designed specifically for their needs. To learn more about our seasonal affective disorder treatment in San Diego, contact us.
Call True Life Center Today for Depression Treatment in San Diego
San Diego’s mild climate and abundant sunshine make it a beautiful place to live and work. However, there are still days that can lead to the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. If you or a loved one think you may be experiencing the symptoms, you don’t have to continue to struggle. We can help.
Let calling True Life Center be the first step on your path to feeling like yourself again. Schedule a consultation with our compassionate team, and we’ll help you rediscover your authentic self and live life to its fullest. Call 858.202.1822 or submit our online contact form.