Maybe you’ve come to dread certain times of year because the changing weather causes your mental health to suffer. Many people feel down when winter sets in. The short days, long nights, and chilly temperatures can feel oppressive. On the other hand, some people wish they could skip the summer months for similar reasons. They might wish they could avoid high humidity and hot weather.
However, many individuals with depression don’t experience dramatic shifts in their mood or symptoms depending on the season. Instead, they experience depression as a chronic condition which doesn’t fluctuate in intensity based on factors like climate. Understanding the differences between seasonal and chronic depression can help you get the treatment and support you need.
Seasonal Depression Is Cyclical
The cyclical nature of seasonal depression ultimately differentiates this condition from chronic depression. When someone suffers from seasonal depression, they can generally anticipate when their symptoms will be at their worst. There is a clear cause and effect, although they might not realize this until their depression returns for a second or third time around the same time of year.
On the other hand, someone with chronic depression may not see a change in their symptoms based on predictable, external factors. Some people with chronic depression do notice that their symptoms worsen at particular times of year, yet they still have symptoms throughout the rest of the year.
Differences and Similarities in Symptoms
Depression can manifest with a wide range of symptoms. Someone with seasonal depression might feel like their symptoms are primarily physical. They might be sluggish, have difficulty sleeping, or get sick more often.
On the other hand, a person with chronic depression may struggle with negative thought patterns, hopelessness, and social isolation. However, it’s important to note that every individual can experience depression differently. There are no symptoms that are exclusive to seasonal or chronic depression.
Environmental Influences
Seasonal depression is thought to be caused by a lack of sunlight and longer hours indoors. Without extensive sunlight exposure, people can struggle to get enough Vitamin D. Deficiencies can lead to fatigue and depression symptoms. Additionally, spending time outside benefits our mental health, but it can be hard to get outside in the winter.
Some people do find relief from chronic depression symptoms by addressing nutritional deficiencies and enjoying time outside, but these issues may not be the cause of their depression. Life circumstances, trauma, and other issues can all contribute to chronic depression.
Potential Treatments
Some people find relief from seasonal depression symptoms by supplementing with Vitamin D, using UV lamps indoors, booking trips to sunnier destinations during the winter, or bundling up for more outdoor activity. People with severe seasonal depression symptoms might even move to areas that experience milder winters or have sunny weather year round in order to escape this condition.
Those with chronic depression might find more value in working with a therapist, trying medication, or implementing significant lifestyle changes.
Light at the End of the Tunnel
People who grapple with seasonal depression might feel a bit lighter when they remind themselves that every year, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. This is not to suggest that seasonal depression isn’t serious.
There’s no doubt that this condition can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. But at times, knowing that the change in seasons will bring about a change in perspective can be comforting. For people with chronic depression, the future can seem bleak, regardless of their actual circumstances.
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Are you dealing with chronic depression or seasonal depression? No matter your circumstances, we invite you to reach out to learn more about your depression therapy options.