Seasonal Affective Disorder Archives - Women's Health and Menopause Center

Menopause and Seasonal Depression

trystan — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 19:05:17 +0000

SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, is a mood disorder that is common during the winter but can occur at any time of year. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression, but it is considered seasonal based on its annual reoccurrence.

Although scientists are not entirely confident about what causes the disorder, it is often linked to the lack of sunshine during the winter months, providing the body with less serotonin than in the rest of the year.

Those experiencing SAD may feel some of the symptoms of depression, including fatigue, change in appetite, lack of energy, and overall sadness.

Seasonal Affective Disorder is diagnosed in women four times as often as with men. Some women experience symptoms that begin to affect their everyday lives, and those experiencing menopause may feel heavier effects.

Declining estrogen levels may result in mood shifts and depressive feelings. Other symptoms of menopause are similar to those of depression, including irritability, anxiety, and a lack of motivation.

Menopause combined with Seasonal Affective Disorder can cause a lot of emotions in women, and it may seem like a feeling that will never end.

There are coping mechanisms for both SAD and menopause that can help women get through the difficult period. Consider light therapy to regulate circadian rhythms and serotonin within the brain. You can speak to your doctor about the various options for lights in more detail. Exercise and a healthy diet are other great options to increase mood and energy levels. Remaining active during this time can help reduce the symptoms of depression and keep your mind and body healthy.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend an antidepressant to combat your symptoms. There are a lot of options with this type of drug, and it is important to work alongside your doctor to determine the option that best suits you.

If you do experience seasonal affective disorder or depression during menopause, it is important to recognize that you are not alone. Our practice is well-versed in the signs and symptoms of menopause, and we are ready to discuss the right plan for you.

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The Holiday Blues

Women's Health and Menopause Center — Thu, 15 Oct 2020 19:28:48 +0000

During normal circumstances even if you don’t have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), it is common to feel a bit of the blues during and after the holidays, especially in Michigan where the skies are gray and the temperatures make outings a chore. Add to that COVID-19 affecting family and friend gatherings, and a pregnancy or a new baby on top of that, you really have to be honest with yourself and gage how you are handling everything. Some women float through and others start feeling down, anxious, tired, and find it difficult to sleep. If that sounds like you, please make an appointment with your OB/GYN to rule out prenatal or postpartum depression or SAD. If you are mentally healthy and just need a little pick me up during these dark days, below are a few of our suggestions.

Walk Outside – Unless it’s icy or unsafe, bundle yourself up and put on some good walking boots and provide your body a boost with some natural sunlight and endorphins. Remember you still need UVA/UVB protection in the wintertime.

Eat Healthy – Between Halloween and New Year’s, we often get in a bad habit of eating junk food. Try to limit the intake of sweets and remember to eat green, leafy vegetables as well as Omega 3s that contain fatty acids which are good for the heart and brain. If you are pregnant, only eat fish low in mercury like cod or salmon. Learn more about a healthy pregnancy diet.

Listen to Music – Music can impact your mood. Create a playlist with your favorite feel good songs to release dopamine; a brain chemical that makes you feel happy.

Meditate – Mindful meditation has been shown to lower anxiety. There are many yoga and meditation classes available online that you can choose from.

Talk – Sometimes just talking with a supportive friend or family member can make a world of difference. Set-up a Zoom meeting, so you can see each other face to face. Don’t underestimate the power of a good support system.

Cuddle Your Partner – Many of us are working from home and are with our partner and kids more than ever before. Don’t forget to use some of that time to cuddle. Long embraces can reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and can even lower blood pressure.

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The Winter Blues – What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Editor — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 00:17:23 +0000

The environment around us can have a powerful effect on our ability to function. Some women experience irritability, sadness, and a lack of energy during the winter months. In extreme cases, some suffer from Seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal affective disorder is a condition that usually starts during the late fall or early winter. It is closely tied to the amount of sunlight that shines each day. People with SAD often experience:

Daily depression
Low energy
Sleeping issues
Changes in weight or appetite
Feeling agitated
Problems concentrating
Feeling guilty, hopeless, or worthless
Thoughts of suicide or death

How Do I Deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder?

If you suffer from winter-onset seasonal affective disorder, you should begin with an evaluation. This should include a physical exam, psychological evaluation, and blood test. Your doctor may recommend several different treatment options, depending on your situation.

Phototherapy – Also known as light therapy, this process involves sitting close to a specialized light box when you first wake up each day. The light recreates the natural sunlight you would normally see during the warmer months. This option usually takes a few days to a few weeks to have an effect.
Medication – Your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant medication. This is usually reserved for patients with severe symptoms. Patients with a history of SAD may be advised to take an extended-release version of bupropion.
Talk Therapy – Also known as psychotherapy, this process usually involves discussing ways to manage SAD and how to identify and change negative thoughts created by it. Patients will also learn how to manage stress and schedule activities to reduce the effect of the condition.
Mind-Body Techniques – This treatment can include meditation, relaxation methods, guided imagery, and art or music therapy.

You don’t have to struggle with the winter blues alone. Talk to your doctor to find a solution that helps you overcome this seasonal condition.

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