As the seasons change, so can our mood. While some people simply dislike cold, grey days, others experience a much deeper emotional shift. This mood change isn’t merely the "winter blues", it might be seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to seasonal cycles.
As a psychiatrist at Patna Psychiatry, Dr. Saurabh Kumar worked with many individuals struggling with this condition. He offers evidence-based, compassionate care for those impacted by SAD and other mood disorders. In this blog, we’ll walk through the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of seasonal affective disorder to help you or a loved one seek the right care.
Seasonal affective disorder refers to depression that emerges during certain times of the year, often in winter. People with SAD may feel fine the rest of the year but experience significant depressive symptoms when daylight hours reduce.
The disorder often develops as autumn ends and lasts into winter; in rare cases, it appears in summer months.
SAD shares symptoms with major depressive disorder but occurs in a seasonal pattern. These may include:
If these symptoms recur at the same time every year, it’s essential to consult a psychiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
While the exact cause of seasonal affective disorder isn’t fully understood, several contributing factors have been identified:
At Patna Psychiatry, we use a comprehensive approach to diagnose SAD. A detailed clinical interview, symptom history, and seasonal pattern evaluation are conducted. Sometimes, standardized tools like the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) are used.
It’s important to rule out other types of depression or medical conditions that could mimic similar symptoms.
The good news is that SAD is treatable. Commonly used methods for managing SAD include:
At Patna Psychiatry, treatment is tailored based on the individual’s symptoms and medical history, ensuring the most effective and sustainable results.
If you suspect you are experiencing seasonal affective disorder, it’s crucial to consult a mental health professional. Getting support early can reduce symptom severity and put you back in control of your mental well-being.
At Patna Psychiatry, Dr. Saurabh Kumar, the Best Psychiatrist in Patna, is committed to providing expert diagnosis and personalized treatment for SAD and other mental health disorders. With a patient-centered approach, we aim to empower individuals to lead balanced and fulfilling lives.
Choosing the right mental health professional is crucial. At Patna Psychiatry, we offer:
Whether you’re struggling with seasonal affective disorder or other mental health issues, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Seasonal affective disorder can disrupt your daily life and emotional well-being, but with the right help, you can overcome it.Recovery depends on recognizing symptoms, acting swiftly, and choosing the right care. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of SAD, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Book an appointment with Dr. Saurabh Kumar at Patna Psychiatry, the Best Psychiatrist in Patna and take the first step toward better mental health.
Disclaimer: All characters and events depicted in this blog are entirely fictional. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. The content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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