Typical signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can sometimes be tricky to notice if you don't know what to watch for. If you notice symptoms such as a loss of interest, a change in appetite, and social withdrawal that don't go away after 2 weeks, SAD could be the reason.
SAD affects around 5% of adults, with symptoms that can last throughout 40% of the year. Although Marietta, GA, is in the southern half of the country, residents are still at risk.
We've put together this guide so you can determine whether or not SAD is the cause of your winter depression symptoms. A better understanding can lead the way to quicker relief and assistance. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know!
Feeling down from time to time is not often a cause for concern. With Seasonal Affective Disorder, this period of low mood persists during the entire season.
It also manifests in other mental health issues, such as feeling extreme:
Sometimes SAD is mistaken for general depression, but the key difference is the timing. SAD clears once the season changes, whereas general depression stays with a person throughout the entire year.
If you or your loved ones feel concerned, it's important to talk to a professional about your symptoms so you can find an effective treatment as soon as possible.
Have you noticed a change in your sleeping patterns? Do you feel as though you never have enough energy to do anything, regardless of how much you sleep?
If this symptom coincides with a change in season, it could indicate SAD.
SAD often affects a patient's desire to move around. You may notice that you move more slowly than before, or you opt not to move at all. This kind of lethargy is hard to shake and could need medical intervention during the affected months.
When you've lost all interest in your favorite hobbies or any assisted living care activities when winter comes around, SAD could be the problem.
Staying active plays a vital role in a healthy lifestyle. Ignoring any kind of activity for several months in a year could lead to bigger problems later on.
You may suffer from:
It's okay to take a break from activities, but it can be concerning when that break lasts for a long time.
Overeating is a common symptom for those who suffer from SAD in winter. It stems from your body wanting to offset that feeling of lethargy with carb-heavy foods. Food also represents an easy way to feel better for a moment or two.
Think about the food you've consumed recently. If it involves more food than you normally eat, or includes a lot of snacks outside of mealtimes, it's time to consider SAD.
Undereating isn't as common but is also a cause for concern. If you don't feel as though you have enough energy to eat regularly, talk to your doctor about the potential for SAD.
Recognizing when you're struggling with maintaining concentration isn't always easy. That's why the term 'brain fog' is such a big help for patients.
Analyze whether or not your brain feels foggy, fuzzy, or slow. It could be SAD affecting your normal cognitive functions.
If you're part of a memory care support community, trouble with concentration can be even more difficult to notice. This is when you should rely on those around you to keep tabs on these symptoms.
Try to have an open mind when a friend or family member approaches you with their concerns.
How long has it been since you've had an intimate conversation with a loved one? How often have you declined invitations to social activities or events since the season turned towards winter?
This is another way that SAD affects seniors.
Instead of wanting to socialize normally, those with SAD tend to isolate themselves without even realizing it at first. They simply don't have the energy or desire to engage with other people like they usually do.
The main thing to remember about these signs is that not everyone gets the same symptoms. Some people are more affected by lethargy, while others can't concentrate.
When you notice a common symptom of SAD that lasts for more than two weeks during winter, it's a good time to talk with your doctor. It's never a bad idea to speak with your doctor about mental health issues as soon as they become a prevalent problem.
Since SAD is a seasonal disorder, it can take at least two years to get a diagnosis. Typically, if you suffer from the symptoms during the same season for multiple years in a row, your doctor will talk to you about how to move forward with emotional wellness tips and medications.
Most people notice their SAD symptoms beginning as soon as the sun starts to set earlier in the night. This can change depending on where you live, but for those of us in Marietta, the months of October or November are often the culprits.
Since we have unpredictable winters, which can range from very mild to severe, sometimes it's hard to prepare for SAD beforehand.
The center of the winter season is the time you'll need to be extra careful about SAD symptoms. Late December through January is the typical range of time many SAD patients find toughest.
Knowing the signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder is only half the battle. The key to overcoming this disorder is to find a supportive senior community that'll help you every step of the way.
At Greenwood Place, we support seniors with mental and physical health issues. Our personalized care plans help you achieve a healthier lifestyle and give you the tools you need to reach your goals.
Contact us today to learn more about how to join our pet-friendly Marietta senior community!