Winter can give many people in locations north of the Equator the blues – that’s according to Rapid City Regional Rehabilitation Institute’s Psychologist Dr. Laura Hughes.
Dr. Hughes says people suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder experience energy loss, withdraw socially, have a tendency to eat more carbs, and in extreme situations may have suicidal thoughts.
“Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that has a seasonal pattern to it where the depression is noticed first in the fall months when the days get shorter. So when there’s less light, like from about October to February, is when people notice the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder if they have this,” says Hughes.
Dr. Hughes says the disorder tends to occur more frequently in women than in men and is difficult to predict. She says it is treatable though. Dr. Hughes suggests opening curtains and getting outdoors to get natural light. She says to talk to a health professional if you are feeling depressed. Hughes says the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder often subside as spring approaches and days get longer.