Seasonal depression is depression linked to the changing of seasons, specifically a lack of light during the day – light that the brain needs to feel its best.
But seasonal depression can also be complex. One thing that makes it complex is that it tends to occur at a time of year when many other things are stressful as well. If you find the holidays anxiety-inducing, or you’re stressed about holiday money/travel, or you have life traumas related to the very same family you’re spending time with, these can all create symptoms of seasonal depression unrelated to light.
Still, the holidays are now over, so you have an opportunity to examine how you’re currently feeling and to see if you have experienced any reduction in your depression. If you haven’t, and you have yet to receive treatment, then now is the time to get help.
Psychiatry for Seasonal Depression
Light boxes and therapy are some of the most effective treatments available for seasonal depression. Still, here in the psychiatric world, we may come across patients for whom these treatments are not as effective, or who need the additional help of medications.
In these situations, we may consider pharmaceutical approaches, or an alternative treatment like TMS. The medications used for seasonal depression are very similar to those used for other forms of depression. These include:
- Anti-Depressants – SSRIs and SNRIs, the two most common antidepressants, are often used to treat seasonal depression for those that did not find success with light boxes and other treatments. These include drugs like Zoloft, Prozac, and Cymbalta. The only issue with these medications is that they can take time to work, so if you are just starting now, they may take a while to have a meaningful effect.
- Wellbutrin – One version of Bupropion (Wellbutrin), known as Bupropion XL, is specifically approved for seasonal depression – though it is typically taken in the beginning of the season, not the middle or end. This medication is believed to be not only effective at reducing depression, but also improving energy levels.
- Melatonin – Some people experience sleep disturbances with seasonal depression that are responsible for many of the symptoms. So a psychiatrist may recommend a Melatonin Agonist to improve the ability to sleep at a more regular time and stay asleep for longer, both of which helping address some of the feelings associated with seasonal depression
This form of depression can also lead to other issues as well, such as anxiety. We can attempt to address these as well through medications and other means depending on your symptoms, what’s working, your mental health history, and more.
Personalized Solutions for You
At Aware Behavioral Health in Dallas, we talk to you about what you’re experiencing and make sure to offer the most personalized service we can, determining what treatment approach is best with you, rather than for you. If you’re struggling with seasonal depression and ready to get help, reach out to our team, today.
