Seasonal Affective Disorder And How It Relates To Trauma In The Body
Seasonal Affective Disorder, otherwise known as S.A.D., is a sustained dip in mood associated with the change in seasons. Leina and I have several family members who have this disorder and have tried different methods for treatment.
We will cover in-depth what Seasonal Affective Disorder is, how to know if you have S.A.D., and how to improve the effects it has on you.
My Connection With Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression. Specifically, it is a sustained dip in mood that's associated with the changes in seasons. It used to be thought of as something that occurred only in the winter, but newer research shows that some people also experience a dip in their mood during other seasons.
My dip in mood always comes during August and September, which correlates with when the person who abused me would come back to live in our home. He would go away for the summer and then come back for school. And so my body just dips, and it takes me a couple of weeks every year to realize the reason behind my low grade sadness. It's another manifestation of the body keeping the score.
What Are The Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Symptoms often coincide with the season that we are in. For example, winter symptoms might be that you would sleep more, otherwise known as hypersomnia. You’d have less energy in the winter as well because of that.
Some people affected by the seasonal change in the spring and summer tend to have more problems with insomnia. They also lose interest in things that they previously enjoyed. They tend to have an increase in irritability, difficulty concentrating and focusing, and there’s a dip in their energy.
How to Know If You Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression and you can have both; depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder. If you feel you might have S.A.D. it is best to see a clinician for a diagnosis. The best way to confirm this is to go in and talk to your doctor and get a referral to a psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist who can also make the diagnosis.
Having a true medical diagnosis by a trained professional can change everything and really help you, your family, and your partner understand how you work best and what solutions there are available to you.
How to Improve S.A.D.
Exercising! Exercising is one of the best things you do to improve your mood. Moving your body produces endorphins and those hormones boost your mood. Also, seek support from your social networks such as your friends and family. This includes letting your closest family and friends know that you are struggling and how they can support you.
Get out into the sun as much as possible. Dr. Andrew Huberme, a neuroscientist and tenured Professor in the Department of Neurobiology at the Stanford University School of Medicine, suggests getting out in the sun as soon as you wake up because it resets your circadian rhythm. If you don’t have access to sunlight during a season, a ring light is a great way to trick the body into thinking you are getting sun. There are also lights that are designed specifically for people with S.A.D. and can be very helpful.
At a quick glance, here are a few things you can do to improve your S.A.D.:
Exercise
Get out in the sunlight
Seek support from friends and family
Drink plenty of water
Complete essential tasks for that day
Breath intentionally
The most important thing you can do if you have Seasonal Affective Disorder is to acknowledge and accept it. Use the seasonal ups and downs to your advantage. When your S.A.D. creeps in, use that time to recharge your batteries and refocus on yourself as a whole; mind, body, and spirit.
If you or a loved one feels that they might have Seasonal Affective Disorder seek professional help to get ahead of the effects. You can also join the Mending Together Community. It’s a monthly membership where trained medical and clinical professionals help you work through past trauma and its relation to S.A.D. and many other clinical disorders.
For more information visit www.mendingtrauma.com/mendingtogether
