This is a guest blog post by Kevin Kappler, Ph.D., a psychologist who is also an expert on JustAnswer.
Spring is usually thought of as a time of growth and hope. It can also be a time of depression.
(Photo: Flickr/D. Sharon Pruitt)
In this article I will examine some of the symptoms of depression that happens in the spring, called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). And I’ll reveal how to deal with them, hopefully lessening the impact this disorder has on your life.
What SAD looks like
The person experiencing spring depression may feel sad, empty, lacking in hope and crying frequently. A child or an adolescent can become very irritable and argumentative. A lack of pleasure even in good things that are happening is another sign.
There are also physical signs like weight gain (which is exacerbated by some antidepressants) and sleep disturbance (particularly insomnia and early-morning awakening). Other signs are fatigue, loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness and guilt especially, about things we have no control over.
In general a depressed person may have difficulty thinking and making good judgments.
While the arrival of spring puts most people in a good mood, there are others who experience the longer days and warmer weather as a seasonal affective disorder. This usually is a mild depression, but it is significant enough to make it hard to enjoy all the things we usually associate with spring.
Spring depression hits with a feeling that everyone else is happy except for you. It can include lack of energy, difficulty getting up in the morning, and the lack of enjoyment in all the new things that spring brings.
What you can do to fight SAD
Here are some good ideas for overcoming your spring depression.
* You may find you are isolating yourself from other people who are out doing things and spring cleaning at home. You need to do something about it and make more contact with your friends, support system, and family.
* Other symptoms of Spring Depression may be negative self talk and feeling worthless. It is helpful to learn to stop this rumination and think of the positive things in your life. Positive imagery, affirmations and making plans all are helpful against this continuous negative self-talk.
* Guard against abusing alcohol or drugs as they may add to your depression and may lead to making poor choices.
* Exercise and a good diet can have a major impact in dealing with your spring depression.
* Avoid the sugar highs that result in a crash.
Lastly I would like to address the negative thinking that prevents you from trying new ideas. When you recognize yourself doing this consciously stop and concentrate on its opposite. Spring is usually a time people think of new things they want to do.
The above steps can help in determining what to do when the flowers start blooming and it’s really nice outside and you just don’t feel the joy of spring.
And you can always talk to a mental health professional at any time on JustAnswer.
More health articles:
- Finding Relief During Spring Allergy Season
- Easy Ways to Prevent a Broken Heart
- 7 Ways to Relieve Acid Reflux
